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Famous paddle steamer takes to Bristol Channel

Marcus Boothe
BBC News, Bristol
PA Media The Waverley sailing near a harbour that has a lot of industrial buildings and a tower with a clock. The vessel has lots of miniature multicoloured flags and engers on board. PA Media
The Waverley paddle-steamer is returning to the West until 25 June

The world's last seagoing paddle steamer returns to the Bristol channel this month.

The Waverley is a vessel of national significance and is ed on The National Historic Fleet with almost 80 years of service.

It has operated in preservation since 1975 becoming a "national treasure" after carrying an estimated six million engers.

"We have developed the best possible sailing programme for the Bristol Channel to ensure that as many locals and visitors as possible have the opportunity to step aboard the Waverley," said Captain Dominic McCall.

Strong winds in early June affected an excursion and a crew member noticed a boiler leaking steam on the ship which needed to be repaired immediately.

The ship will now be ready to set sail again for its planned tours on 6 June where engers can a special fundraising cruise round the Holm Islands to help the maintenance of Clevedon Pier, the only Grade 1 listed pier in England.

PA Media Birds-eye-view of the Waverley, sailing across the ocean with lots of engers on deck. PA Media
It has operated in preservation since 1975 and became a "national treasure"

This season includes two planned trips to the remote Lundy Island – engers that board the Bristol channel experience will be allowed to step ashore and explore the island.

To mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway the Waverley is giving the "ultimate day out" by connecting three steam railways – the West Somerset, the Brecon Mountain and Lynton & Barnstaple railways by taking a paddle steamer and steam train trip.

Trips around the Bristol Channel and South West Wales are until 25 June, where the Waverley will be exploring Glasgow and Clyde Coast Summer from 27 June.

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