Campaign launched to save 'national treasure' ship

The Kathleen and May first launched in 1900

A bid to save a 125-year-old tall ship by raising more than £250,000 for urgent repairs has been launched.

The coastal schooner Kathleen and May is currently laid up in Gloucester Docks and repairs are needed to stabilise its structure.

The ship is the last working three mast, wooden hull topsail schooner and the only one of her class still in operation.

David Morgan, President of the Maritime Heritage Trust and a former deputy chair of the Maritime Trust said: "The Kathleen and May was the first major vessel saved by the Maritime Trust in 1970 and her historical significance to the nation is paramount."

The community group hopes to raise £258,678 to restore the ship

The Kathleen and May Community Interest Company was formed last year with the aim to acquire and preserve the vessel.

It is now organising a 100-day fundraising appeal to pay for urgent work.

The long-term aim is to restore the ship, which was designated as a national treasure by the Arts Council in 2011, so it can sail again.

Launched in 1900 at Connah's Quay as the Lizzie May, the Kathleen and May sailed from North Wales for eight years until it was sold to new owners in Ireland.

Once the ship is restored, it will be registered in the Port of Gloucester and enter its new life as an educational, research and exhibition vessel.