For an interesting alternative to restoring an ld merlin follow this link.
http://www.oldnautibits.com/onbnews/onb ... pr03.shtml
Neil this could go with your bookshelves.
Chris
What to do with an old merlin
My crew has seen the website and now is demanding an armchair to be installed midships - however she has requested that it be padded with fire-resistant foam and wants a choice of material covering. Technically I need to know whether the thwart will take the strain! I am sure that CVRDA (Classic and Vintage Racing Dinghy Armchair) enthusiasts can help me out!!!!!!!!! Whatever happened to the "dinghy bookshelf" idea as I think that I will require a set for the stern area!! Should Chris rename Saskia - IKEA? Discuss!!!
If I could have got Proctors and Robbins (and soon Rondar for a centreboard) to give the bits for free I'd have changed the name to one like the 18 footers have... But instead I'll have to change the name to "made me broke" for some such. But I think Kathryn will insist that she remains Saskia!
Rupert