A Scottish businessman has stepped in to save the historic Victorian clipperCarrickand restore it to its former glory. The 19th century ship was formerly one of the star attractions at Glasgow’s Scottish Maritime Museum before money ran out to keep it and staff were been forced to consider its demolition.

The ship, once called the City of Adelaide, was built in Sunderland in 1864. Travel company boss Mike Edwards has now donated funds to the Maritime Museum in Glasgow to pay for the start of restoration as well as a shelter for the ship and research to explore how best to save her.

Speaking to the Glasgow Evening Times he said, “I am delighted to have been given two years to consider the various options which may exist to save the Carrick from the threat of demolition. Meanwhile, we can try to ensure there is no further deterioration.”

According to Lord Maclay, chairman of the Scottish Maritime Museum trustees, museum staff can now begin to feel optimistic about chances to save the historic clipper, still holder of the record for the fastest passage to Australia by a sailing ship.

If the rescue plans succeed, the next headache would be where the ship will be berthed; ironically, in spite of the official reluctance to pledge funds to keep Carrick afloat, many bids have been made public by agencies in the UK and Australia wanting to use the vessel as an attraction.

Full Story at the 24 Hour Museum