TRIBUTES have been paid to a long-standing and cherished member of the model boating community who died earlier this month.
Brian Perkins’ passion for modelling began in the early 1970s with IC-powered model boats.
He became a founding member of the track-building group in Wombwell, which remains in use to this day.
His interests soon expanded to 1/12 scale RC cars at the Britdale Glass RC tracks in Wath-upon-Dearne, where he was active from the late 1970s to the early 1980s.
In 1983, Brian briefly stepped away from the hobby to establish his own electroplating business.
However, a few years later, when his son Stephen – current lead of MWBC Model Boat section – gifted him a model boat kit for Christmas, his passion was reignited.
From that point onward, Brian’s interest flourished in all areas of model sailing, including yachts, submarines, workboats, and live steam models.
Both Brian and Stephen became members of the Manvers Waterfront Boat Club from its inception in 2006, where they enjoyed sailing their models and sharing wonderful moments with fellow enthusiasts.
A spokesperson for the boat club said: “Unfortunately, Brian’s health began to decline, starting with low-grade cancer in his bladder and kidney.
“Then, in mid-August, he received the devastating news of an aggressive, untreatable cancer in his lower oesophagus.
“Brian passed away peacefully on September 1, surrounded by family at Barnsley Hospital.”
Mark Benton, director of the club, added: “Brian was a stalwart member who will be greatly missed by everyone at Manvers.”
