Ship in Distress, The

If you wish to learn how to transform a fast-sinking old boozer into a lively, popular and much loved local take a trip to Mudeford, drop anchor alongside The Ship, and ask for Sally Canning.

Crammed full of cheerful people surrounded by nauticilia The Ship's turnaround was achieved very much on the back of its attitude to decent food, centred almost entirely on the fruits of the nearby sea with the odd concession to those who must have their meat. At one stage of the recovery customers were even being invited to bring their own sandwiches or takeaways to eat on board, but there is certainly no need for that now.

In the restaurant start with Breton fish style soup, grilled Brixham scallops, or delicious brochette with crab and spring onions glazed with gruyère cheese. What follows is always a bit subject to wind and weather, but think in terms of baked fillet of turbot with shallots, lemon sole filled with crab on Tuscan style beans, or a fresh Mudeford lobster salad served with new potatoes.

Follow up with one of the wide selection of fresh homemade desserts, say date and apple cake with green apple ice cream, banana tart tatin with coconut ice cream, or mixed berry Bakewell tart with clotted cream.

Freshness, generosity of helpings, all amidst wonderful atmosphere just about summarises the qualities of this excellent vessel, now pursuing a steady course with a happy crew and overjoyed passengers.