Meet the cast and crew of the Viking Boat launch, 18 June 05:
· David Jones – designed
and built the Lille Draken.
Role: At the helm for the launch into the water, steering the boat.
A bespoke furniture maker, with more than 22 years experience, David Jones’ clients
include embassies, Viscount Linley and Lawrence Llewellyn Bowen . Married to
Kathy for 17 years and a father of four.
www.davidjones.uk.com
· Sophia Myles – film & TV
Star . 
Role: Naming Lille Draken - in Norse tradition a woman names the boat.
International film star Sophia Myles, is best known for her definitive performance
as Lady Penelope in Thunderbirds and as the female lead – Lizzie - in
ITV’s drama Colditz. Just 25 years old, her career has already seen her
working with internationally acclaimed names – her most recent film
Art School Confidential launches in the US later this year and sees her working
with figures such as John Malkovich, Angelica Houston and Jim Broadbent.
www.sophiamyles.org |
· Ulf Greder – Jarlen (the Earl) of Bärsärkar
och Vikingar in the UK
Role: Master of ceremonies
Presiding over proceedings, Ulf Greder is the Jarlen (Earl) of Bärsärkar
och Vikingar in the UK, a 250-strong organisation for Norse-men in the UK which
was first formed in London some 120 years ago. Swedish born, Ulf currently
lives in a small village in Wiltshire.
On the day, Ulf will deliver a short speech after which he will say a few words
in Swedish wishing the boat god speed on the seven seas: “Njord, benevolent
god, be good to Little Dragon. Fill her sails with fair wind. Let her ride
the waves to distant coasts. Guide her return to harbour and those waiting
and longing.” He will then make a symbolic offering to the river god
Sulis, before the boat undertakes its maiden voyage.
· Reverend Peter Myles – Vicar
of St John the Baptist Church, Isleworth
Role: Blessing the boat in naval tradition.
Peter Myles has been vicar of St John the Baptist Church, Isleworth for 12
years and it was here that he met David Jones, a member of his congregation.
First ordained in 1971, since serving his first curacy in Tideswell, north
Derbyshire he’s been in the Kensington Episcopal area.
· Mark Edwards – friend
and owner of Richmond Boat Houses.
Role: Raising the sail, a skilled job and rowing
Mark, owner or Richmond Boathouses, is an expert boat-builder in his own right
has appeared on television in programmes such as Country File. As a friend
of David’s he was able to provide advice during the project.