A new £25,000 fundraising appeal has been launched to get the Maid of the Loch sailing once again.
The historic paddle steamer, which is currently undergoing a volunteer-led multi-million pound restoration, needs public support to buy essential materials and equipment.
The works will see the restoration of the hull and paddles on the boat, which will be 70 years old next year.
Jim Mitchell, industrial heritage director, said: “These funds will allow us to take the paddles to ‘as-new’ condition.
“The plan is for the ship to be returned to the loch with all underwater work completed.
“This, along with the hull work will be a major leap forward towards the Maid sailing once more.”
The vessel has been a static attraction at Balloch for the last 16 years after being rescued from dereliction following the end of her sailing days in 1981.
She was pulled from the loch onto her Balloch slipway last year.
Readers can donate to the appeal at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/maid-of-the-loch---paddle-restoration-campaign
