This model of a Solway fishing boat is made of silver. 100 years ago local fishermen gave it to their MP because he helped protect the fishing industry.

• Silver model of a Solway trawl boat
• 1897
• Annan, Dumfriesshire
• The Annan Waterfoot fishermen presented this to Sir Robert Threshie Reid MP in gratitude for his campaign to protect the Solway fishing industry

This exact reproduction of a 31 foot cutter was made by the Glasgow silversmith, James Forrest, famous for his model of the then Prince of Wales' yacht "Britannia".

He based his work on a larger wooden model made by local boat builder, James McCubbin. Many parts are moveable, including the tiller, pumps, chimney hood and forecastle-hatch. The scale is half inch or 1:24.

The model was presented in 1897 by the drift and trawl net fishermen of Annan Waterfoot to Sir Robert Threshie Reid, MP for Dumfries Burgh.

The main Solway fishing fleet was based in Annan, and the gift was given in recognition of the MP's efforts to protect the local fishing industry by vigorously defending the Annan fishermen before the Royal Commission of Solway Fishings.

In response to the presentation, Sir Robert observed, "I never saw a more beautifully finished piece of silver work in my life".

In the collection of Dumfries Museum & Camera Obscura.