DISMAY ABOUT THE BOATHOUSE - FIRST OWNERS SPEAK OUT

My wife and I were devastated to hear the news of the fire at Saltaire Boathouse.We bought it off the mill when it was very run down and was still just a boathouse. I repaired the rowing boats, (23) with the help of many local friends and started serving cups of tea.

Interior of Boathouse in the Arnold's time	The Boathouse in the 80s	The Boathouse, September 08

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Around 1980 we managed to get a loan, developed the property and obtained the first licence in the village! After that we ran a licensed restaurant and along with our Victorian nights we made a great success of the business. We sold in 1989 with great sadness as the business was just getting too busy for us to handle.

We left many really great friends behind when we moved over to Skipton and we often think of them and the good times we had there. This is a great tragedy not only for the Boathouse but for the village and we send our very best wishes to all who are trying to save it.

Strength to Your Efforts!

Very best wishes

Christine and Derek Arnold

Images 1 and 2, courtesy of Christine and Derek Arnold

Added to website: 19 September 2008