Reporter Millie Emmett got to meet pandemic heroes from across Maldon on a special barge trip. Here she reveals what it was like on the historic Hydrogen barge.
Invites were given to volunteers and public sector workers to enjoy a sail on the river to thank them for their work during the pandemic.
It was a perfect day for sailing, with little wind and lots of sun, and volunteers crowded onto the Thames sailing barge Hydrogen.
The barge has an extensive history and was built in Rochester in 1906.
Hydrogen was used during the Second World War as a supply ship and at the Queens Silver Jubilee in the river pageant carrying a large golden lion.
The barge was known as the “Whisky Barge” in the early 1980s when it was bought by Bells Whisky and taken on annual UK circumnavigation trips to promote their products.
It was used again to represent Essex in the Queen's jubilee celebration in 2012.
The barge is now based in Maldon as part of Topsail Fleet of barges.
I was among those invited to the experience on the River Blackwater.
Once all the guests were aboard, the skipper welcomed us and councillor Bob Boyce expressed his thanks to all those invited for their hard work and dedication throughout the toughest parts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The event was held for the people who helped to keep the Maldon district safe and functioning over the last few years.
Crowded around me were volunteers and public sector workers from Citizens Advice, charities, schools and more.
From speaking to those who received invites, they were thankful to have an event to recognise all their hard work.
Many reflected on the last few years and how tough it was for everyone.
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Lots of guests agreed that despite the challenges, so many people handled the pressure well and worked hard throughout.
The barge deck crew, which included a student on work experience, prepared the boat for take off towards Osea Island.
The sails on the barge were lowered and the barge travelled steadily down the river as guests enjoyed the experience.
There was a sense of admiration among the guests as each modestly discussed the last few years and everything they had done.
It was a perfect afternoon to give thanks to those incredible individuals and groups.
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