By Isle of Wight Observer
Fundraising for the namesake boat of the Waverley Inn at Carisbrooke raised over £2,000, and is not finished yet. Landlords Tim Bailey and Julie Higginson held a fun day to raise desperately needed money for the historic paddle steamer PS Waverley, which needs a boiler refit and other work before she can again tour UK waters, including her annual trip around the Isle of Wight.
At the fun day they raised £2,059 through various activities including selling a special ‘Waverley Ale’ brewed and donated by Goodards Brewery, raffles, a bonus ball draw, a blind auction with lots of other fun and games. They held a BBQ with live music all day, featuring Isle of Wight folk music and Highland Pipes and Drums.
Tim and Julie said: “We thank all the volunteers and staff who gave up their time to help and a long list of suppliers and customers who donated items for the raffles, tombola and BBQ. This was only possible because of their generosity.
“We’re not quite finished yet as we have an online auction for a four-night break on the Island for four people including return travel, two nights in the Waverley Inn and two nights in a Westland Wessex Galahad Helicopter as featured on Channel 5 Celebrities go Camping.”
Bids starting at £500 can be sent to bidpswaverley@gmail.com.
So far over £850,000 has been raised of the £2.3m target to get the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world afloat again. Fund raising continues apace, and it is hoped that work to replace the boilers can start in January if funds are secured.
You can find out more at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling (0141) 243 2224 or by texting STEAM £20 to 70085.
