It is with great sadness that we must share the news of the passing of BOD sailor and builder John Mullins. David Chivers has kindly provided the following message.

Sadly, John passed away on December 18^th 2020 at Stronvar Rest Home, after battling Dementia since 2007.

John was born and grew up in Brightlingsea and boats and the sea were in his blood. His apprenticeship at Aldous’s and work with Cyril White cemented his skills as a shipwright. He was a keen racing sailor in classes such as the BOD and Flying Dutchman.

John’s experience in boatbuilding was extensive, and he worked for several companies. He was involved in Jaguar Yachts – designing their 21 – and the Robber ¼ Tonner. He worked on Aluminium yachts at Woodbridge and for many years worked for Petticrows overseeing the development of the Dragon and doing much of the work for the wooden deck versions. John was one of the finest shipwrights and his standards were second to none. His designs and drawings are works of art, and I know many who were envious of his beautiful lettering on drawings. John lived in Burnham on Crouch for many years.

The BOD always held a place in John’s heart. From building C31 Blue Peter in 1962 through to his legacy in providing the moulds for the GRP boat which has seen 7 new boats added to the fleet. Sadly, he was unable to finish the first GRP hull – C50 – which was to have been his boat, but she is of course now sailing under Sue Boukley’s care.

I feel very privileged to have known and worked with John and to have sailed with him. Whether in my BOD for the 65^th Anniversary or to racing Burnham weeks with him in “Monarch” his beautiful varnished “Mini Tonner” type he designed and built for himself. I always learnt something from being with him.

I am sure we will all have good memories of John.

David Chivers
9^th January 2021.