An all-girl Fairlop Sea Ranger group are riding the waves again after the crew’s seaway boat was launched on Saturday.

Ilford Recorder: The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Felicity Banks, met the Fairlop Sea Rangers at the launch of their new boat.The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Felicity Banks, met the Fairlop Sea Rangers at the launch of their new boat. (Image: Archant)

The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Felicity Banks, joined rangers for the official ceremony at Fairlop Waters, in Forest Road, Barkingside.

Ilford Recorder: The sea rangers launching their new boat at Fairlop Waters.The sea rangers launching their new boat at Fairlop Waters. (Image: Archant)

The crew’s second-in-command Julia Austin, of Abridge, worked through the summer to make SRS Barnehurst fit for purpose.

Skipper Jenny Colclough, of Barkingside, who has been a part of the crew for 50 years helping the youngsters enjoy activities such as sailing, canoeing and archery.

“It took Julia Austin all summer to fix the boat coming down once a week,” said Ms Colclough. “She is my number one.

“She has been a really great help by bringing new life to the crew.”

The 15-strong crew was involved in last year’s Diamond Jubilee river pageant celebrations for the Queen – a former sea ranger herself.

This year sees Ms Colclough, Ms Austin and their crew of youngsters celebrate the Sea Ranger group’s 70th anniversary.

The name Barnehurst is taken from a WWII boom defence vessel, which former sea rangers sent knitted socks and food parcels to during the war.

For more information about how to join the sea rangers, call 07791222271.