The world-famous Waverley paddle steamer is planning a "sail past" of Helensburgh to back the campaign to bring back its pier and cruises.
The paddle steam will sail towards Helensburgh on Sunday, August 18 on her cruise to Dunoon and Arrochar to raise awareness of the need for the pier.
Activists in the town are aiming to take over the facility and bring it back to regular use by the Waverley and many other vessels.
And they have asked for as big a public showing as possible for the sail past to show the strength of support for both the iconic ship, and the town's pier.
In May, the Waverley made a trial berthing at the pier in support of efforts to bring it back.
Bill Purdon, chair of the local group seeking to reopen the pier, said, “We would ask that as many people as possible in the town gather on Helensburgh pier to see Waverley as she paddles past the pier to give her and her passengers a cheer.
(Image: Waverley Excursions Ltd)
"We’ll be issuing small flags to wave, while Waverley will give long blasts on her whistle and encourage passengers to cheer and wave back, so it should be an exciting occasion."
The pier was closed to marine traffic in 2018 and the group of passionate volunteers are working to take over ownership from Argyll and Bute Council, who last year reported the pier was not viable for fixing.
The Waverley is not permitted to berth, but will slowly sail close to it to demonstrate it could visit Helensburgh once more.
Paul Semple, Waverley general manager, said: “We are exceptionally keen and determined to have Waverley make regular calls at Helensburgh once again and would encourage locals to show support by turning out to see Waverley.
(Image: Waverley Excursions Ltd)
"Through most of Waverley’s 50-year preservation career, Helensburgh has been a key calling point with great support shown from locals to step aboard Waverley over the years.
"Bringing Waverley back to Helensburgh will give an opportunity for economic benefit to the town as well as the opportunity to experience Waverley and enjoy the Clyde coast.”
Waverley will perform the sail past around midday on Sunday, August 18.
The event is free, and organisers hope as many people as possible can give their support by turning out to witness the iconic steamer returning.
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