This week Jamie Greene, Regional MSP for West Scotland, has made a plea to the Scottish Government to help save the Waverley.

The Conservative list member has asked the Scottish Government to step in and provide some financial support for the Waverley.

This came after news earlier this month that the famous paddle steamer will not operate its annual sailings for the first time in 45 years.

The boat has been taken out of service due to ongoing boiler issues.

It has been concluded the boilers must be replaced if the Waverley is to sail again in 2020.

At the Scottish Parliament’s Portfolio Questions, the Largs-based MSP asked the Culture and Tourism Secretary whether she thought that Government organisations such as Historic Environment Scotland would have a role in helping the Waverley.

The Cabinet Secretary responded by saying that she agreed that Historic Scotland could be able to help and said she would “investigate” Mr. Greene’s idea.

Jamie Greene MSP commented: “It’s heart-breaking that the Waverley won’t be sailing the Clyde this year.

“As it passes by my office in Largs I’ve gotten used to seeing it regularly, as I’m sure everyone in the community has.

“I’m glad that the Cabinet Secretary has agreed to look into whether Historic Environment Scotland is able to help with the costs of repairing this iconic vessel.

“The Waverley is of great cultural importance here in the West of Scotland, and I’ll be following up with the Scottish Government to see whether they’d be willing to provide some support to ensure it’s back on our waters.”

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