Waverley to sail in 2020 after reaching fundraising target
The fundraising appeal to save the paddle steamer Waverley has reached its £2.3 million target just seven months after it was announced the famous steamship would not operate in 2019.
The Boiler Refit Appeal has attracted donations from more than 8,000 individuals as well as support from the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, several trusts and £1 million from the Scottish Government.
Arnold Clark and the Swire Charitable Trust have confirmed their support, meaning the appeal has reached its target.
Eddie Hawthorne, chief executive officer and group managing director for Arnold Clark, said: ‘I’m delighted we’re able to contribute £50,000 towards the restoration of the Waverley. Arnold Clark understands how significant the ship and its heritage is to Glasgow and we were keen to help towards the £2.3 million fundraising target.
‘I’m looking forward to seeing the Waverley on her way back “doon the watter” soon.’
Waverley’s new boilers are currently being built by Cochran’s Ltd in Annan and are due to be completed in
February. Work required on the ship will involve the removal of the iconic twin funnels to allow access to the boiler room.
Waverley Excursions general manager Paul Semple said: ‘Thanks to the fantastic generosity of so many people and organisations, we are now able to push full ahead with
Waverley’s boiler refit which will be the most substantial refit since her rebuild was completed in 2003.
‘I would like to thank everyone who has donated to the appeal and supported our efforts to save the last seagoing paddle steamer in the world.’
The Waverley is owned by a registered charity and operated on a not-for-profit basis.
Support
The recent appeal for cash has been the most successful in the ship’s preservation career but ongoing support will be required given the annual cost of dry docking and refit. Mr Semple added: ‘The trustees of the Waverley charity believe ongoing charitable giving must now form a greater part of Waverley’s long-term operational survival to ensure she remains in service.
‘We are deeply grateful to all those who have helped this year and, in the months and years ahead, will ask those who care and who are able to help, to add Waverley to their permanent thoughts.’
The Waverley will be moved from Glasgow to Greenock, under tow, in January, where the major ‘open-heart surgery’ will take place.
The work is expected to take around four months to complete allowing the Waverley to undertake her regular cruises around the west of Scotland, the Mersey, Bristol Channel, south coast and the Thames in 2020.
‘We are deeply grateful to all those who have helped this year’