Rhapsody in Blue
Page 50
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TRADITIONAL rivalry between the great transatlantic liners is echoed in a minor key by the Blue Riband of the Channel presented by Calais Chamber of Commerce for the fastest crossing from Dover to Calais.
The first holder is Spirit of Free Enterprise, Townsend Thoresen's new 8000-ton ferry ship. Capt Oliver Elsom battled with a force eight gale to make the run in 53 minutes and 49 seconds at an average of 23.9 knots.
Two more similar ships will be introduced on the route this year They are the biggest ever built for cross-Channel service and are said to be at least three knots faster than vessels currently operating between Britain and France.
Compare this maritime urgency with the procrastination on land. Even with a following wind and good visibility it takes at least eight years of preparation, consultation and inquiries to clear the way for a road that can be built in two years. Meanwhile, the lorry driver who averages 23.9 knots for the first 21 miles from some British ports is heading into a force eight accident.