19 th December

Been occupied with seasonal festivities the last days but did manage a bit.

Started fitting and shaping foam in forepeak that will be removable once the ply is epoxied and sealed over the top.  I estimate about 80kg of buoyancy extra once finished as well as in a good place (low down)

Also started filling bow compartment with closed cell foam and fixing in the 4cm thick sheets with spray foam.  You can see the tube on the port side that can be used for checking if there is any water in the bottom as well as sucking/pumping out.  I will keep on going up with foam sheets till the bottom of the inspection hatch / access for bow fitting bolts.  Once at the level of the bottom of the hatch I will seal off the foam.  The tube will allow for expansion / contraction of the remaining air so as not to build up + or -  pressure in the compartment.  Above the bottom of the hatch will be filled with easily removable foam to allow for inspection / service of bow fittings.

Chainplate bolt holes over drilled and filled with epoxy and redrilled and had chainplated refitted.  I will block the holes with plasticine for the glassing and fairing process on the outside when the time comes and just clear out the holes from the inside with a drill when done.