Brighton Marina

Igesia Nagusia at Brighton Marina

From the private collection of Jane Francis

Sailing in - 1985

by Jane Francis, Brighton resident

"I, along with 7 other crew members sailed into the 'Exhibition' area in Brighton Marina from Northern Spain in 1985. We had spent 2 years helping to refit 'Igesi Nagusia' (a Basque name meaning 'the great escape') with a view to sailing around the world at a later date. She's 100ft long including her bowsprit, with 2.5000 sq. ft. of sail.

The project's photographer
I took this picture as I was walking down the ramp towards what is now the Asda car park. I had been the project's photographer for the past two years, and was always looking for another angle from which to see her.

Had to move for the building contractors
Within 6 months we had to move 'Igesi Nagusia' to another part of the Marina, as building contractors were coming in to remove the pontoons and berths in preparation for the infilling of the harbour.

Much quieter in 1985
The Marina was a quieter place in 1985 and I felt, had much more of a nautical spirit than it does today. Whenever I park and walk towards the Asda shopping centre, I always think about the boat and wonder where she is now."