Funding crisis as Waverley arrives in Pool of London

The Waverley sailed from Bournemouth Pier on Thursday night for its annual visit, with Tower Bridge opening at 6.30pm.

The world's last sea-going paddle steamers Waverley and Balmoral could be making their final voyages along the coastline this month unless £350,000 is raised.

The charity which owns the vessels is facing soaring fuel prices, operating costs and winter maintenance bills. So far this summer season £140,000 has been raised.

Chairman Nick James says: "I must stress it is vital we continue to raise the further £210,000 to secure their futures.

"The only way we can ensure these beautiful historic ships can continue to sail is to appeal to local communities and tourists to get behind our campaign and come aboard or donate to the ‘Save the Waverley’ fund."

The Waverley, which appears in the trailer for the new Hollywood movie Sherlock Holmes 2, will be based in the Pool of London for a week offering trips downstream.