[michael james]

Fred, What a great explanation. I was not fortunate enough to experience a visit to a shipyard whilst building was in progress, your description gives an insight into what is involved, from plans to plating.

I did watch facinating work going on at Smiths Repair yard whilst I was on "standby" on a Brocklebank ship there for minor repairs, the skill involved was enthralling for anyone with a mechanical bent like myself. Thanks very much for posting.