Altogether £33,700 has been raised for essential repairs to Paddle Steamer Waverley.

To mark the 4oth anniversary of the paddler’s first voyage in her preservation era in 1975, the Society decided to launch an special appeal to fund some essential repairs to the steamer.

*Two New Masts

The mainmast is now due to be replaced during the 2016 dry docking.   Timber for both masts has been acquired but the foremast will not be renewed until the present one is fully life expired.   This plan replaces the original proposal to use aluminium masts so the steamer will retain her present appearance.

* Replacement of Decayed Deck Timbers 

The balance raised will be devoted to timber deck renewals, primarily to end the leaks from top deck into tea room and purser’s office.

We are grateful not only to the 234 supporters who made individual donations but also to all our members who kindly paid a little extra with their annual subscriptions.  In addition, the Wessex and Dart Branch forwarded £1,000 from a bequest made by one of their local members.   And finally we must thank the Government for adding over £6,000 in Gift Aid. Don’t forget that by Gift Aiding you can boost your subscriptions and donations by 25p for every £1 you give at no cost to yourself, provided you pay sufficient UK Income and/or Capital Gains Tax.