TS Queen Mary returns home for restoration
The TS Queen Mary will return to the Clyde later for restoration.
The historic vessel is due to arrive at Greenock after being towed from the Port of Tilbury in Essex.
Built in 1933, the 250ft steamer has been languishing at the docks for years after falling into disrepair. Charity 'Friends of TS Queen Mary', raised over £300,000 in under a year making the return voyage possible.
The charity patroned by actor Robbie Coltrane OBE.
Speaking from a vessel which towed the historical ship out of the Port of Tilbury on the River Thames, charity trustee Iain Sim said: “I’m really quite emotional seeing her set sail, it’s caught me by surprise. This is a proud moment in the charity’s history and in the history of this fantastic and most beautiful vessel. She’s finally coming home!”
As the historic vessel departed London for the last time, small crowds gathered to take photographs and wave her goodbye.
In her hay day she was the pride of the Clyde sailing passengers ‘Doon the Watter’ from Glasgow to destinations such as Dunoon, Rothesay, Millport and Arran.
Once safely back in Scottish waters, the charity will launch a fundraising appeal, expected to be worth around £2 million, to restore her to her 1930s splendour.
The restoration effort will be aided by apprentices, continuing Scotland’s ship-building legacy in the 21st century.