THE operators of the paddle steamer Waverley say that time is running out to raise enough money to ensure the famous ship returns to service next year.

Waverley Excursions Ltd (WEL) announced this week that the appeal to raise £2.3 million to return the world's last sea-going paddle steamer to the Clyde in 2020 had passed the £850,000 mark.

The money is required to fit the ship with new boilers after faults in the existing equipment forced WEL and the ship's owners, Waverley Steam Navigation Ltd, to cancel her entire 2019 sailing season.

WEL general manger Paul Semple said more than 5,000 people had donated since news broke in May that the ship would not operate this year – only the second year since the ship entered service in 1947 that she has not sailed.

READ MORE: 'Save the Waverley' fund-raising appeal passes £500,000

“The continued support for the Boiler Refit Appeal has been heartening," Mr Semple said.

"We are receiving support from across the UK and beyond with many donations being made in memory of someone.

"We are delighted that the total raised so far is over £850,000 but time is tight if we are to reach our target and have Waverley back in service for next summer.

"I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has donated so far as this has given us the confidence to order the boilers and electrical equipment required.

"The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society has continued to support our efforts and recently made a grant of over £150,000 to the appeal.

"With so many people donating there is clearly strong support for this special ship.”

READ MORE: Waverley's future in doubt as all 2019 sailings are cancelled

Work is progressing on board Waverley with volunteers assisting in the task of removing components from the boiler room following the decision to withdraw the ship from service and fit new boilers.

If further funds can be secured, the work to recommission the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world will begin in earnest in January.

Mr Semple added: “All involved with this project are totally focused on the fact that Waverley must sail again and can’t remain static.

"Our aim is to keep Waverley alive, but to achieve that aim we will need further support.”

The charity which owns Waverley has applied for funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with a decision expected by November.

Donations can be made to the appeal at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224 or by texting STEAM £20 to 70085.

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