Figuring that the hull sides were the most important bit to assemble, and unusually following the instructions, I stuck the two bow sections together this weekend.

It has to be said that here the model shows it's age, and it took a series of clamps and tape to get the halves to stick at the keel, and up the bow.

The deck spars or beams are rather flimsy, and when the halves are glued these are not rigid enough to space the deck correctly, and choosing to go 'off piste', after sealing the hull joint (for future use as an RC model) I installed the bow deck section. This too was not straightforward, as the hull sides did not follow the deck closely, and these needed to be sprung and held so as to adhere closely.

Having tidied up this junction, I couldn't resist laying some of the deck. I know this will mean more masking later on, but it does work very well, and sticks effectively. I did however remove most of the moulded deck plank detail to ensure that it bonded evenly.

Looking ahead, the stern sections appear to be a better fit, and the deck sections to be fitted should spread the hull sides evenly.

You can see the deck spar bowing at the rear of this section:

The next section of deck will straighten these sides perfectly (hopefully!)

Next the stern sections and prop tube.