The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society has issued the following press release:

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PRESS RELEASE – Wednesday 4th September 2019

£150,000 Cash Boost for Waverley Appeal

The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) has awarded a grant of over £150,000 from its reserves to the Paddle Steamer Waverley Boiler Refit Appeal. This will further boost the appeal total of £500,000 announced in early August.

Society Treasurer, Martin Longhurst, stated “The PSPS is proud to support Waverley and is demonstrating its commitment to the Boiler Refit Appeal by today passing, from our reserves, the sum of £157,746 as our contribution towards the purchase of the new boilers and generators. This grant is in addition to donations from our members, who have contributed the magnificent sum of £200,000 to the appeal, raised in just over three months. Our efforts will continue as we must return Waverley to service in 2020 or she will remain static.”

Chairman of the charity which owns Waverley, Derek Peters, commented “The Waverley Steam Navigation Co. Ltd. is really appreciative of the efforts made by the PSPS and its branches to support our Save The Waverley Boiler Refit Appeal. The various fundraising events held by the Society including the MV Solent Scene cruise demonstrates what can be done and a huge thank you is due to all involved. I hope the success of this outing will encourage further efforts and maintain the momentum of the appeal through to a successful conclusion to ensure Waverley steams again in 2020.”

The new steam boilers and all electrical equipment required for Waverley has been ordered and is due for delivery by early January. The installation of the new equipment is expected to take around 4 months, if sufficient funding is secured to reach the £2.3 million appeal target.

Donations to the Boiler Refit Appeal can be made at paddlesteamers.org or by calling 0141 243 2224 or by texting STEAM £20 to 70085. New members can join the Society by visiting our website and further strengthen our support for Waverley.
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If Waverley is to return to service in 2020 further funds will be needed. The last seagoing paddle steamer in the world was due to be operating on the Bristol Channel at this time.

Waverley’s withdrawal from service means her popular trips on the Thames will not take place this autumn. This will be the first time since 1978 where a paddle steamer has not offered cruises on the Thames and sailed under the iconic Tower Bridge.