For John Mecray the preservation of our yachting heritage has been an adjunct to his painting. It led to his founding of The Museum of Yachting and more recently as a co-founder of the International Yacht Restoration School, known by its acronym, IYRS.

      "IYRS has positively been the most gratifying thing I've ever been involved with", says the artist. "It's a wonderful experience to see classic vessels restored to their former glory and usefulness - while teaching rewarding and marketable skills".