Joe, utmost respect to you for a job extremely well done.
In Naval parlance: BRAVO ZULU!
If I'm correct in assuming that you sail on Walpole Lake in Gosport then I look forward to seeing COVENTRY on that lake soon.
We launched our version of War Department Train Ferry No3 on that very lake today and were blessed with good weather, calm water and light winds, critical for a vessel with such a low freeboard.
Whilst discussing the stabilisers on HMS COVENTRY I'm reminded of a sad tale regarding her sinking and her stabilisers. As the ship's company abandoned ship, her First Lieutenant was almost last to leave. As he slid down the heavily listing ship's side, and being uninjured, he apparently caught his chin on a still extended stabiliser fin, was seriously injured and perished as a result.
Our thoughts go out to his and all of the families bereaved in the Falklands Conflict, especially as Armistice Day approaches.
Your excellent model should be a fitting memorial to those lost aboard the COVENTRY.
Kind regards,
Sandy.