A bid to secure cash so children can visit a historic ship has been approved but money for a VIP reception has been turned down

The Rotary Club of Harwich and Dovercourt asked for £1,000 to allow discounted entry on to a replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour ship for primary school children.

It also wanted £800 from Harwich Town Council to help fund a reception at the Guildhall on July 25.

The town council unanimously agreed to give £1,000 and said it would underwrite any shortfall to the tune of £800, providing the money was just used for the children.

Garry Calver said: "The bit about children is a brilliant idea and I think we should make a point of saying Rotary has done a wonderful job and this council should support it in principle and financially.

"I feel from this council's point of view making the ship accessible to primary school children is more of a priority."

Councillors felt they were already providing the Guildhall as a venue for the reception and £800 for 65 guests was too much.

The Endeavour will arrive on July 5 and stay in town for two weeks

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2003

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