It was the “E-Type Jaguar” of the boating world in the 1960s designed to cut through the waters at speed.

So when Aldridge businessman Gordon Whiston bought his 12ft 6 Light Craft Graduate racing dinghy 42 years ago for £300 he was the envy of his Dudley Yacht Club pals.

Now moored in his Portland Road home’s front garden and decades since it touched water, Gordon is keen to see the handmade dinghy go to a good owner.

The father-of-one said: “I bought it when it was nearly new, I was a member of a yacht club and sailing was all the fashion. In those days once you were accepted into the clubs you then had to buy the boat they sailed or you couldn’t join.

“I was a member at Dudley Yacht Club which used the Netherton Reservoir, I also took it to the seaside a few times to Wales.

“But it hasn’t been used in nearly 30 years now and I no longer have anywhere to keep it, so I would like to see it go to a good owner.”

The dinghy was made by Wyche & Coppock Ltd in Nottingham and Mr Whiston still has all of the original books and certification which describe the dinghy as perfect “for the discerning helmsman.”

“It is still in its original varnish, though probably needs a new coat now,” he added. “The original wooden mast was stolen and has been replaced with an aluminium one, aside from that it is all original. In modern terms it is probably not that fast, but it was the E-Type Jaguar of its day.

Mr Whiston has the boat, its trailer and cover up for sale for offers over £300. Anyone interested can contact him on 01922 454782.