Haven't come across Allen West or Wolfs as yet but will keep an eye out for them.
If anyone knows where the Watermen's Records are housed I could look over them if accessible - or indeed I'd be interested in any insight into the Waterman profession. It was clearly a physically demanding and risky profession but one of great pride and comradeship.
Whey Pet, divven't ye knaa The Keel Lad?
THE KEEL LAD
He's an ug'ly body,
A lovely Body,
An ill faced hideous fyeul,
But Aah hev married a Keel Lad,
And my guid days are done.
Now Aah thowt te marry a Parson,
to make us say me prayers,
But Aah hev married a Keel Lad,
And he kicks me doon the stairs.
Aah thowt te marry a Dyer,
to dye me Apron Blue,
But Aah hev married a Keel Lad,
and he meks me Sally Roo.
Aah thowt te marry a sailor,
te bring us beads and lace,
But Aah hev married a Keel Lad,
and he's a bloody disgrace.
Aah thowt te marry a joiner,
te mek us a chair and stool,
But Aah hev married a Keel Lad,
and he's a perfect fyeul.
