The Author

John Jefferies was probably the only man in the world who could name the Masters and Mariners, in his unique and valuable collection of pre- and post- war yachting history, created with the help of many retired Masters and sailors. Being the son of a Mariner who helped in crewing some of the largest yachts in the world, having much yachting experience to his credit and cruising five months inside the Arctic Circle with the late Duke of Westminster.

JJ, as he was affectionately known, was born and bred in Brightlingsea, where he lived until his death on 27th March 2008. He was the great-nephew of the late world famous Captain Robert Wringe of Brightlingsea, who commanded Shamrocks I, II and IV for Sir Thomas Lipton. JJ was also nephew of the late Harold Stroud, first mate, under Captain Albert Turner of Wivenhoe, of the Royal Racing Cutter Britannia 1931-36, owned by King George VI.

JJ was able to name all the Mariners in his many photographs, together with names and details of all the famous yachts and crews, making his life-long collection one of utmost historical value, not only for Great Britain, but also for the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand, being past winners of the Cup Series.