Paul Drury-Bradey, a North Lincolnshire local, has penned a book documenting the intriguing story of the Humber Hovercraft service of the late 1960s, which connected Hull and Grimsby. This brief but captivating chapter of history has often been overlooked in light of the Humber Bridge’s opening. Yet now, with painstaking research and compelling narrative, Drury-Bradey has revitalised it.
The Hovercraft service, which could transport passengers across the Humber in a mere 20 minutes, presents a marked difference to present-day journey times. Drury-Bradey’s new 80-page publication provides a unique insight into the region’s innovative history by featuring unexplored letters, arduous negotiations, and uncommon archive images, which together paint a splendid tableau of the era.
Influenced by his familial connections spanning both sides of the Humber, Drury-Bradey was motivated to restore a connection between communities through this historic project. The endeavour included creative heritage sessions and exhibitions, collecting stories from local citizens and delving the depths of archives. Furthermore, it has reinvigorated debates about modern transportation and the potential return of hovercraft services to the region.
The project conceived by Drury-Bradey has received recognition, with a series of workshops and talks arranged throughout the UK, as well as percolating into international spheres at expositions like SXSW in Texas. His persistence accentuates a wider discussion about regional links and reopening unconventional means of transport.
‘ Humber Hovercraft’ by Paul Drury-Bradey provides both a nostalgic and progressive view of this unique period in local history, and is currently available for those keen to delve deeper into this audacious endeavor in transportation.
This article was adapted by The Lincoln Post using the original report found at www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk.
