Pop along and visit Alastair Phillips and discover more about a small, keel-less boat called a coracle. Alastair will be on hand to answer any questions throughout the show.

The Coracle

A small, keel-less boat, the coracle was specifically designed for operating in swiftly flowing streams.

Evidence of coracles dates back to the early Bronze Age, though the first clear description of the craft does not appear in texts until 1188.

Early coracles consisted of a basketwork frame covered in animal hide. Craft of this nature are metioned in Welsh poetry of around 1440. Hide covers were supplanted by a material known as 'flannel' (a kind os felt), that in turn gave way (1794-1880) to the canvas or calico coverings that we see today.

My coracles are based upon traditional Welsh styles, but do not claim to be true traditional replicas. The 'Ironbridge' and 'Wye and Usk' styles have most influence on my designs, but I have adapted both to suit my requirements.

Each coracle is made by lacing together a framework of swan laths (strips of wood). The laths are clenched (nails bent over) onto the gunwale of the craft that has been formed into a hoop around the seat. A skin of calico is stretched over the completed frame and tacked into place. Loose fabric in the 'corners' is tucked into darts that are sewn closed. The craft then receives three coats of bitumen paint, after which laths are fitted to the inner and outer gunwales. It is then ready to launch.