Britain's last working steamship plans summer sailings

The charity behind Britain's last working steamship in Southampton is hoping to start carrying passengers again this summer.

SS Shieldhall has been awarded £61,200 from the government's culture recovery fund.

The money will be used to help pay for the 65-year-old ship to go into dry dock to ensure it is seaworthy.

Shieldhall was unable to sail at all during 2020.

The award will be used to promote its June – September sailing programme, set to cover over 20 sailings.

Entirely run by volunteers, sailings will take place under Covid-compliant conditions.

Captain John Rose, chairman of the Shieldhall Charity, said: "With the government road map now set out, we are welcoming volunteers back to the ship and are preparing her to enter dry dock in Falmouth next month.

"This grant will assist Shieldhall in obtaining the industry-standard ‘good to go’ marque and communicating this information, with the goal of safely welcoming guests on board in June.

"We can’t wait to get back out on the water to once more witness the departure of Southampton cruise ships and provide a great viewing platform for events such as the Round the Island and Fastnet Races.

"Whilst we may have lost the 2020 sailing season, Shieldhall remains in great shape and will be celebrating her 66th birthday in style in July."