Original Launch Info
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 . Sophia Myles
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.
For information on the Lille Draken project click the following link:
http://www.davidjones.uk.com/history
For Press Event Information for the 25th June event, please click here .
