old ferry service in Worcester is in jeopardy

The ferry service on the River Severn, known as Doris, has been operational for a millennium, but its future is uncertain due to a shortage of volunteers. The service, which operates between Diglis and Chapter Meadows in Worcester, relies heavily on community support, as it is neither a business nor a charity. Currently, there are only six volunteers, while the ideal number is around ten to ensure proper maintenance and operation of the ferry. Ferry master Stephen Cope highlighted the challenges faced by the service, particularly the need for undercover storage during winter months. Doris, being a wooden, clinker-built boat, requires extensive care and maintenance, especially when taken out of the water for repairs around Easter. Without adequate help, the volunteers fear that Doris may not survive the winter. New volunteer Barney Burnham described his experience as enjoyable, emphasizing the serene environment of the river, which contrasts with the nearby urban bustle. However, the joy of volunteering is overshadowed by the pressing need for more hands to assist in the upkeep of the ferry. The community is now calling for support to ensure the ferry can continue its long-standing service. If the current situation does not improve, the volunteers worry that they may not be able to maintain Doris, leading to the potential end of a historic service that has been a part of Worcester's heritage for a thousand years.