After the sea, TNT

[George Bis]

Made redundant from Sugar Line at the end of 1979. Signing onto the dole in Ramsbottom lead to an interview with Inter County Express who were about 10 min. away.
I got the job as a Storeman and started after lunch. I worked there for 4 years in what became TNT and which led me to setting up my own road haulage business

[Harry Nicholson]

It warms my cockles to read such life stories. Well done, George.

[Malcolm G]

Hello George,

I just spotted that you are a new arrival from 'The other site'.
Welcome aboard, Plenty to see here.

[George Bis]

Originally Posted by Malcolm G

Hello George,

I just spotted that you are a new arrival from 'The other site'.
Welcome aboard, Plenty to see here.

Many thanks. I don’t suppose I am the only “new arrival”

[R58484957]

Greetings George and welcome to SH. Bon voyage.

[lakercapt]

There are many of us and some even have the same log in!

[George Bis]

Hi Lakercapt..
I read your shipping life. with a great deal of interest
I just wondered at Certificates we’re needed to command on the Lakes?
Best raids
George Bis

[lakercapt]

Hi George glad you enjoyed my stories and it took a while to compile and organize. My wife who was a school teacher did the editing and sorting of the rambling.
The requirements for sailing on the "Great Lakes" were at the time based on UK certificates. When I immigrated I went to Transport Canada and presented my qualifications to their examiner. After a long discussion and questions, I was granted Canadian certificates of competency. Then I had to sail on ships to gain Canadian experience and complete the trips required to get the pilotage exemptions. That was extensive and I was pleased that I had spent time on Robertsons of Glasgow on their ships which gave me lots of ship handling and pilotage experience.
Getting knowledge of the many ports and berths plus the rivers and canals was especially extensive. Getting the time in then as an extra captain sailing with an experienced captain watching how to do work and letting you try your hand at the many apects of this special area. My first trips on my own were stressful but it became easier as I gained more time in "the front window"
I really did enjoy this time in my career and am pleased to be included in this special group of ship captains a very talented group of ship handlers.
Should anyone wish a copy of my stories send me a PM and I will send you a copy which you can download.