RESTORATION of a rescued fishing boat is now underway with the backing of Durham Constabulary. The vessel, called ‘Night Owl’, capsized in Seaham Marina during bad weather, but was lifted and subsequently donated to Deneside Action Group (DAG) by the owner. The group now aim to rebuild the boat with the help of local kids, who can then use it for fishing trips. Gary Faulkner, of DAG, said: “It’s something for the kids to do. It gets them off the streets, which can only be a good thing.” During the restoration, Night Owl will be stored at Seaham Police Station, where one of the garages has now become a boathouse. Sergeant Terry Hill, of Seaham Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “It’s a great way for us to engage with the community. It’s their boat, their property, but we’re assisting by housing it. “We’re looking to get the community group skipper qualifications, with the view in the long term of taking the kids out and doing some fishing. It’ll be a great community asset.” Group members, Durham Constabulary officers and Chief Constable Mike Barton attended an official launch event for the project today, where Mr Barton promised to supply the champagne once Night Owl was seaworthy. Mr Barton said: “The great thing about Night Owl and its restoration is that it’s nothing to do with the Police. This is about Deneside Action Group and the kids of Deneside, and if they need a bit of help, then that’s what we’ll give them. “They’re going to own it, use it, and go out there and fish. What a great way to make sure that they’ve got something to aim for in life, whether that’s as a hobby, or as a future career.” DAG has also enlisted the help of Kev Woodcock, who spearheads the ‘Somet Fishy’ initiative. The two projects will work together, using fishing as a way to occupy youngsters with a productive pastime. The group hope the boat will be fully restored and seaworthy by the summer. DAG was set up with support from Durham Constabulary in 2014 as part of the ‘Mutual Gain project’ which was commissioned by the Force. They organise litter picks, hold sponsored events and arrange community football matches.

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