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[Tricky Dicky]

Hi 

 A question has been asked on another forum as to whether any models, kits or plans have ever been available for the Freeman range of cruisers. Freemans had a long and admired production of high quality pleasure cruisers. They ranged from 22' to 41' in length, had a fiberglass hull and superstructure with lavish craftsman made hardwood interiors, a feature inspired from their caravan heritage. Built in Wolvey, Nr Hinckley, Leicestershire, from 1957 to 1983, they found worldwide markets but a large number were to find their home on the Thames, rivers and lakes of the UK. Their quality of build is testament to the large numbers that survive today and like the Fairey Huntsman, are iconic to the boating fraternity. However, unlike the Huntsman no models appear to have ever been made or available. It is possible that copyright was never given for a model to be constructed and after the company closed the rights to the name were bought by Sheriden Marine at Moulsford, Oxfordshire, who continue to this day supplying backup and support to the Marc.

 If one were to want to build a model or perhaps as some have within the Forum to prepare for a kit of a particular vessel to be made, what route should one take in order to safeguard against copyright infringement, albeit that one is building a scale model not a lifesize replica.

[hmsantrim]

hi TD.
need to find if any plans still exist first.   You could try sheridans to see if they have got any plans but from they they offer not sure.
At Sheridan Marine we offer a comprehensive programme of specialist Freeman maintenance and servicing. From bottom painting, cleaning and engine servicing through to complete refurbishmentFreeman Cruiser Spare PartsWe manufacturer and supply original Freeman Cruiser fittings, from deck fittings to engine spares.
Being the first production manufacturer of GRP boats he was obliged to manufacture most of his own fittings as marine wholesalers were in their infancy. These traditional fittings are still manufactured, largely from their original castings.
 
 seems to be a number of forums and sites for freemans boats  you could look there. 
 
 frank
 
 

[Tricky Dicky]

Hi Frank

 Thanks for your reply, I am infact a Freeman 24 owner and it was a posting on one of the forums which prompted my interest. The initial inquiry was for completed models that could be displayed on owners boats or home display similar to model cars. Sheridans were mentioned as possible marketeers if such models were to exist. This made me wonder why the Freeman range had escaped scale model reproduction when so many other known makes such as Fairey, Vosper and Riva to name but a few, have been reproduced in many forms for many years.

 I note with interest your involvement with this Forum and Sheriden and wonder if this could be a trigger to start the process off. Possibly you could be better placed to inquire of Andrew when he's in an accessible mood, if he acquired any of the plans at the acquisition or if the Freeman family still retain them. Sadly as you know Mr Freeman, died last year and I believe his grandaughter recently bought a 22' to reconnect with the legacy.

[hmsantrim]

Hi TD.
 RE:I note with interest your involvement with this Forum and Sheriden ???   I have no involvement with Sheridans maybe your confusion lies with what I posted about the services they offer but this is just  what I lifted from the internet sites I am just a Bog std forum member who  has a knack for data finding.
From what  I can see the Freemans boats tended to be more for inland waterways cruising.  Fairey marine on the other hand were used on HMS ships.  in films 007 for instance and offshore powerboat racing which is possibly why there were modelled they were more publicly known.
You will have to make the approach your self,  get an appointment tell him you are an owner, show a photo of the vessel,  tell him what you want, (plans) explain to him you are a modeller,  take a model with you as evidence,   talk up the project  as promotion for the business.   its a cross between fishing and ego stroking..
 
Frank 
 

[Tricky Dicky]

Hi Frank

 Sorry for the career change  but thanks for the interest, I thought the text seemed a little familiar, lol, Sheridans owner is renowned for being a grumpy old B..... I'll have to go and buy some stuff from the shop and ease it into the conversation, it's a shame really as they also bought the rights to the "Seagull" Outboard which can cause restriction on access for information on that front.

[hmsantrim]

hi TD.
 RE: Sorry for the career change...not a problem job in boat chandlers that would do nicely, been a long time since I`ve seen any work..
when you are in the shop try and find out what grumpy guts drinks as a nice present of a bottle of something always opens doors whenyou are on the scrounge.   
well TD its a big OL internet we have now and if you you know how to look you could probably find all the seagull info you need. like here for instance 
http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/Boats-Parts-Accessories-/169485/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=british+seagull      550 items
 
frank   

[Tricky Dicky]

Cheers Frank

 Just as an update, one of the Freeman forum members has approached Revell. Revell have shown an interest and are to investigate the Marc with a mind to seeing if a kit or kits would be marketable. I have to say this is encouraging as they could have easily said not interested, which if they do decide to go ahead could then open up other outlets etc.