A model boatbuilder, who was evicted by his local council after 19 years at his premises, has reopened for business in a new workshop.

John Bertola, 74, has made nearly 300 models of yachts in the 30 years since he formed Superyachts Supermodels and for many years operated out of a workshop at the side of the Motorboat Museum in Basildon, Essex.

But despite the fact business was booming, when the decision was made to close the museum Mr Bertola was told he had to go as well.

He said: ‘I was the last man standing. There were no other craftspeople down there at all.

‘I’m upset and it was sad when I had to go. I didn’t want to be looking for new premises at my age.’

Mr Bertola makes most of his models for cruise and shipping businesses, but he has built models for Sir Peter Blake and Tracy Edwards, as well as models of America (pictured), the 19th-century schooner from which the America’s Cup takes its name, and Pete Goss’ Team Phillips catamaran.

And now he has relocated to new premises in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, he has vowed to continue working.

He said: ‘I don’t want to retire. I will carry on working until my hands give up on me.’

Subscribe to Yachting Monthly magazine for all the latest sailing news and reviews