SS Robin gets Munich makeover
26 November 2007
Last week underwriters from the Lloyd’s market put down their slips and picked up a paintbrush in a bid to give the world’s last remaining steam coaster a well-earned makeover.
Around 12 people from Munich Re’s Watkins Syndicate volunteered to renovate SS Robin – built in 1890 – at her home at West India Dock, in London’s East End. The team was led by Jack Flanagan, an underwriter with the firm, and was tasked with sanding and varnishing the deck areas, and painting the railings. The £1,000 donation from Munich Re will allow for the purchase of much needed materials.
The Team Challenge forms part of Lloyd’s Community Programme, which seeks to help improve the opportunities and environment of the people of Tower Hamlets and neighbouring East London boroughs through the involvement and support of individuals and companies working in One Lime Street.
Natalie Tickle, who works within the Lloyd’s Community Affairs, Corporate Services team, explains: “We encourage teams in the Corporation and throughout the market to take part. It is seen as an alternative to the traditional away days. We met with Munich Re, who were keen to take up a challenge and they chose from a list of ideas. Being a marine syndicate here at Lloyd’s, this was the one that suited them. They really liked the idea of being on a boat.”
Steam coasters, such as SS Robin, were designed as a result of the development of steam boilers, screw propulsion and the triple expansion engine.
Despite a desire to conserve her, SS Robin lacks funding. She is supported only by a team of volunteers, led by David and Nishani Kampfner, who bought SS Robin and set it up as a charitable trust, of which HRH Prince Philip is an honorary member, and Jim Fitzpatrick MP and Channel 4 newsreader Jon Snow are patrons.
Despite her 117 years, SS Robin still has her original engine. Her final voyage took place in the 1970s.
Last updated on 26 Nov 2007
