THE annual crane out of the boats at Fisherrow Harbour took place earlier than planned due to Storm Ashley.

Stuart Rillie, Fisherrow Harbour & Seafront Association (FHSA) harbour manager, said: “The crane out was scheduled to take place on Monday, October 21, with the plans to move the 29 boats into the allocated beach positions over the weekend, ready to be lifted when the crane arrived. However, due to the forecasted arrival of Storm Ashley, we had to change plans at the last minute and move all the boats on Thursday/Friday, ready for the crane to start lifting them out at the earlier time of 6am on Saturday, October 19.

He added: “The crane arrived on site around 5.30am and we completed the operation by 12.15pm. A good effort and a lot of work was put in by the crane team and they can all take a rest until March 31, when the boats are scheduled to be lifted back in.”

Fisherrow Harbour and Seafront Association is holding its annual general meeting on Monday, November 18, at 7pm at the HQ of Musselburgh Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets on South Street. The public meeting is open to all. If anyone wishes to become a trustee or get involved, email secretary@fhsa.org.uk to register an interest.