Here is another of Mr D's models. He built this one back in 1985, and has recently had it back from his son to do a bit of repair work - 30 years later...

The Galleon was built only from a cut-away picture, no measurements or plans. On repairing it, he found the original picture in the belly of the boat. Built with 16,000 matches over one year.

Perhaps escapism.  His children were 30 years younger also. 

Beautiful craftmanship

Mr D would beg to differ, this was one of the first of the models he made, very rough and jagged around thd edges. Getting better all the time. but thanks for the words.

Mr D was a smoker in those days, but even still, managed to buy all he needed from craft shops

That is beautiful

Thanks Rocket.  Now housed in sons house in Melbourne.... some more recent photos after the restoration.