Hi everyone,
I am new on this forum and my reason to be here is because I need urgent help to assess the damage done to the model of the 'Stella Polaris' after it was rescued from an unfortunate Garage fire. The metal 7'.00" model was in the garage of it's owner along with a smaller metal model of the Queensbury, when a fire occurred. The fire was very fortunately spotted before the building was destroyed by it but nevertheless, the model has suffered from fire damage. The intense heat has blebbed and burnt most of the paintwork around the superstructure and decks and sadly several passengers who were lounging on the decks enjoying the cruise were consumed by the heat and melted.
The long time owner of the vessel had had it stored in his garage for many years. It is a replica model of the historic and much loved luxury yacht commissioned and built for Kaiser Bill several years before the second world war, but it was was seized by the British Government as part of war reparations and later sold, I believe, to the Bergen line who used it for several years to ferry passengers between the Tyne and Norway. It was a regular sight on the Tyne and is fondly remembered still.
The owner would like to know if anyone would be interested in taking on the project of restoring the model ship to its former glory and obviously at what cost. But failing that, If you can offer your help in way it would be sincerely appreciated, maybe by taking a professional look at it to assess the damage and to advice on the best course of action? The garage and owner are located in the village of Holywell near Seaton Delaval.
The fire occurred two weeks ago and the matter needs a very fast response. The Garage contents were insured but because there was lots of tools, equipment and an accumulation grown over time of numerous other items, the contents, overall, were probably undervalued. I am here to tell you the story and to appeal for help, because where else would I find the expertise, passion and concern, than from the you, the experts?