CAMPAIGNERS bidding to refurbish and reopen Helensburgh's dormant pier say their efforts are gathering pace after they successfully set up a registered company.

The local group behind the plans has taken a major step forward by forming The Helensburgh Pier Company Limited, as well as applying for - and receiving - charitable status from the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator.

The category C listed structure has been out of action for more than six years having been closed to all marine traffic in 2018, although it did partially reopen to shallow draft vessels earlier this year.

Argyll and Bute Council has previously insisted that the pier's regeneration was not viable, prompting community figures to mobilise with the aim of bringing the pier back into use.

Hundreds attended an organised gathering in August as the historic Waverley paddle steamer sailed past the pier in a show of support for its restoration.

(Image: Supplied) John Beveridge MBE, founder and former chairman of the Loch Lomond Steamship Company, is one of three directors of the new company, and is joined by chairman Bill Purdon, former marine project engineer and company director, and company director Dr Anne Foy.

John said the group have been working for some months to become a properly constituted body and have been in detailed discussions with the council, who still own the pier.

He added that talks with the local authority are at an "advanced stage", and the new charity is continuing discussions.

It is hoped that the formation of a company limited by guarantee, together with having charitable status, will give the council the assurance it needs to reach an agreement with the new charity.

Anne said: “We have applied to open a bank account as the charity will need to raise money and apply for funding to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to the pier.

“We are making enquiries regarding repair costs as this will determine our plans for the future.”

The charity has established a Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/HelensburghPierCo where followers can stay up-to-date with any progress.