DONATIONS to save the Paddle Steamer Waverley have now exceeded half-a-million-pounds following the iconic steamship’s withdrawal from service earlier this summer.

The major appeal which was officially launched in June aims to raise the £2.3 million needed to fit new boilers on the Waverley and return her to service in 2020.

Waverley’s general manager Paul Semple said: “Thanks to the fantastic public response to our Save The Waverley Boiler Refit Appeal we have reached a key milestone in our fund-raising campaign.

READ MORE: New boilers ordered for Paddle Steamer Waverley

"To date over 4,000 individuals have donated with some of our core supporters giving a ‘once in a lifetime donation’ knowing that we urgently need funds to secure Waverley’s future.

"In addition, we have received offers of help from several organisations and companies, but we will need further help to get Waverley’s paddles turning again.”

Several fund-raising events have taken place in the various towns and villages which Waverley serves.

Locals and visitors from Millport on the Isle of Cumbrae showed great support to four-year-old Ethan Pringle last weekend by donating over £1,600 when he undertook the 10-mile trip round the island in his wheelchair to collect funds.

Ethan said: “The Waverley is broken. We need to fix it.”

Mr Semple added: “With the new boilers already on order we must increase our efforts to secure further funding to allow our plans to progress which will see Waverley undergo major surgery commencing in January.

"I am exceptionally grateful to everyone who has come forward to help us Save The Waverley and with continued support she will sail again.

"We simply can’t allow her to remain static. She is the sole survivor and I know so many people are willing her to succeed.”

READ MORE: Campaign sets £2.3 million target to 'save the Waverley'

Waverley is currently berthed in Glasgow where preparation works are on-going by her engineers and a loyal band of volunteers.

Earlier this week the first section of deck was cut open to enable some large components in the ship’s boiler room, which are already dismantled, to be lifted free.

Donations to the Boiler Refit Appeal can be made online at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling 0141 243 2224 or by texting STEAM £20 TO 70085.

All donations made directly to Waverley Excursions will be recorded on a Donor Wall on board Waverley.