Loch Lomond’s beloved paddle steamer the Maid of the Loch has received a funding boost to power forward the dream of her sailing again.

The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) have pledged another £50,000, bringing the regeneration campaign closer to its end goal of £5.5million.

Hard-working volunteers are currently working to bring the Maid “back to life” as it currently sits moored at Balloch Pier as a static tourist attraction.

The Loch Lomond Steamship Company have spearheaded the transformation since 1996, working tirelessly to restore the ship to its former glory and make her fully operational again.

John Beveridge, chairman of the charity that owns the Maid, said: “The PSPS has supported us from the beginning, and to now give us £50,000 shows the faith they have in us to get the Maid sailing once again.

“Their support takes us yet another step closer to our goal, and it is a huge boost to have the country’s leading preservation organisation demonstrating this commitment. We are most grateful, and look forward, with confidence, to the Maid’s first sail,”

The chairman said the area will reap massive benefits if the Maid can get back to being fully functioning once again.

He said: “The Maid sailing again will be a huge boost to the area both in terms of creating new jobs and training opportunities, and in being an iconic heritage attraction that will give visitors a memorable experience of Loch Lomond.

“Our business plan for the Maid estimates that she will carry around 95,000 passengers every year, and during the winter months will be open as an events and function venue. This will bring more visitors to Balloch all year round, having a spin-off benefit to local businesses. It should also enhance Loch Lomond’s reputation internationally.”

The PSPS support follows recent backing from the Scottish Government, and comes at a critical time with the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) match-funding deadline fast approaching.

The £50,000 will also go towards a target to gain a significant £3.8m donation for the Maid from the HLF.

Paul Semple, PSPS national chairman, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the PSPS is able to offer this level of support to help ensure that the Maid of the Loch returns to service.

“I look forward to joining the historic steamer for a sail on Loch Lomond in the near future and I am sure that a fully restored paddle steamer will become a very popular attraction with locals and visitors alike.”