BUSINESS chiefs in Helensburgh have welcomed a Scottish Government funding pledge of £1 million to help save the paddle steamer Waverley.

Culture secretary Fiona Hyslop announced the support package last week and the ship’s operators have now raised almost £2m since a rescue appeal was launched in June.

Waverley was withdrawn from service earlier this year when it was determined that her boilers would need replacing if the iconic steamship was to sail again.

A total of £2.3m is required to return the vessel to full operation.

As reported in last week’s Advertiser, and elsewhere in this edition, the Waverley’s hoped-for return to service is only part of the story for Helensburgh.

READ MORE: Helensburgh pier repairs could cost £250,000 a year, says new report

The ship’s return to the town also depends on repairs being carried out to the town’s pier - and that remains shrouded in uncertainty after a report to Argyll and Bute councillors revealed an expected cost of £250,000 a year to repair and maintain the council-owned facility.

Vivien Dance, chair of the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce, said: “Congratulations to the Scottish Government for responding to the Waverley appeal and ensuring the future of this iconic vessel with their contribution of £1million.

“The target to upgrade the vessel is now well within sight and that is welcome news for businesses along the Clyde who derive tremendous benefit from the steamer.

“The vessel should return next season and our pier must be ready so our town can benefit in the same way that Dunoon does.

“The council should revisit its decision on the pier and find the investment required. Helensburgh deserves this support.”

Ms Hyslop said: “The Waverley has delighted generations of locals and visitors throughout its 70-year history and I am pleased to be able to announce this significant financial commitment to help the historic paddle steamer set sail once again.”

Paul Semple, Waverley’s general manager, said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Government has allocated this level of funding towards Waverley recognising the ship’s heritage value and the economic benefit she brings to many coastal communities.

READ MORE: 'Time is tight' in funds appeal, warn Waverley's operators

“This funding, together with the donations received from thousands of individuals, takes our running appeal total to £1.9m.

“However, we urgently need to secure a further £400,000 through donations, corporate funding and grants to ensure we can carry out all the work required to have Waverley back for next summer.”

If further funding is secured Waverley will return to service for 2020, which has been designated as the Year of Coasts and Waters.

A decision on an application for £250,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to further boost the fund-raising effort is expected by November.

Donations can be made to the Boiler Refit Appeal at Waverley Excursions’ website (waverleyexcursions.co.uk), by calling the company on 0141 243 2224, or by texting STEAM £20 to 70085.