Worcester Cathedral Ferryman to retire after 41 years
Mark Glossop relaunched the famous ferry, Doris, back in the 1980s!
Last updated 20th May 2024
Worcester Cathedral say one of the founders of the site's famous ferry is retiring after 41 years.
Mark Glossop relaunched 'Doris' in 1983 and has been rowing at the Cathedral ever since.
The Cathedral Ferry has been rowing people across the River Severn from the Water Gate for over 600 years. It has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it provided a direct and convenient crossing for monks and milkmaids to cross the river to work in the meadows and the Priory of Hardwick in St John's. The ferry crossed the river every day until the late 1950s.
The service was restarted in 1983, when the current boat 'Doris' was launched. Since its inception, Mark has volunteered to run and row the boat, and is now hanging up his oars and handing over to a new generation, and will be greatly missed by all who know him.
In 1983, Mark Glossop was contacted by Nicola Milne, wife of the then Head Master of King’s School, over concerns about the distance students were walking in order to access playing fields on the other side of the river after Saturday school.
As a parent, Mrs Milne ear-marked Mark as someone who would lend a hand to address the problem.
Fundraising began and they decided a vessel to ferry the boys across the river and back was needed on Saturdays, and with the agreement of the then British Waterways, the idea came to fruition.
Mark sourced the boat when on holiday in Dorset that year. He found a strong, sturdy, wide vessel, built circa 1960, and it's the same ferry that still runs today. Originally called Moonraker (probably after the James Bond film), it was decided to rename the boat Doris (after Doris Kinnersley - a local woman who did much for local good causes).
It wasn't plain sailing, and Mark set to uncovering the steps on the opposite side of the river, which had long since disappeared into the overgrowth. He dug them out by hand and over the years has also been instrumental in securing new railings, as well as maintaining 'Doris' to continue the task at hand.
The Cathedral Ferry offers a short but delightful journey across the river. Passengers can admire the best view of Worcester Cathedral, which many visitors might otherwise miss.
In 1983 the price of a crossing was 10p one way. Nowadays passengers can cross for just 50p and enjoy not only the ease and amazing views, but also follow in the footsteps of their ancestors who crossed the same waters centuries ago.
Mark said: "It has been a pleasure rowing people across the river for the past four decades, but I'm 88 now, and the time has come to handover to the next generation. I have met some interesting people and seen some sights over the years, including transporting a cohort of Women's Institute across the river dressed entirely in mid-19th century costumes, as part of their procession around the Diocese. We've also had wedding parties crossing over the years, ale festival goers and visitors of all nationalities to the Cathedral and city. I will miss it, but it will still be here for all to enjoy."
Interim Dean of Worcester, Canon Stephen Edwards, said: “The Cathedral Ferry offers a perfect view of the Cathedral from the beauty of the river but it also provides a practical link for passengers wanting a quicker journey across to the other bank. Mark’s amazing service in restarting and then maintaining this historic link deserves much praise and thanksgiving. Thanks to his dedication the Cathedral Ferry remains part of the rich culture of the city.”