Scale 1:48. A contemporary full hull model of the ‘Lady Southborough’ (1923), a self-discharging self-propelled hopper. Constructed in the builder’s style, the model is decked, fully equipped and rigged, and is complete with simulated dredged aggregate in the cargo space. Built by Societe des Chantiers et Ateliers de St Nazaire, Penhoet, France, it measured 170 feet in length by 34 feet in the beam with a 14 foot depth of hold. It was powered by a reciprocating steam engine of 750 horsepower which produced a service speed of 11 knots.

The ‘Lady Southborough’ is typical of this type of hopper which receives its cargo of dredged material from the dredger whilst lying alongside. It then proceeds under its own power to the spoil grounds in the estuary and unloads by simply opening special doors fitted to the underside of the hull. On either side of the cargo space inside the hull, there are watertight tanks fitted to keep the hull afloat and stable during the opening and shutting of the bottom doors.