Chatham boats used in films sold in online auction

More than 200 boats used in films are being sold in an online auction

An online auction of more than 200 boats used in major films and stored in Kent is taking place.

The boats, which have featured in films over the past 60 years, are being sold by Thames boat builders, Turks, who store the vessels in Chatham.

Some were used in Swallows and Amazons and Harry Potter.

Company director Richard Turk said computer-generated imagery (CGI) meant production companies did not need to use real boats.

Changing industry

Mr Turk said: I've had a lot of luck, I've been to India, Africa, china, so I've had some good times and some bad.

"I think the film industry changed dramatically, it's all CGI, they don't want too much background."

All the boats for sale have a starting price of £0 and will be sold to the highest bidder.

Steven Dugard, managing director of Apex Auctions who are running the sale, said: "You almost feel the ghosts of the people who have worked here before.

"We've had inquiries from all over the world, a lot of specialist groups, and some very localised as well."

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The boats are kept in storage in Chatham