Historic ships set sail for different futures

A RUSTING lightship which used to anchor at sea in all weathers to mark a navigation hazard is to be restored.

- RICHARD YOULE

The Seamark pictured next the Helwick in Swansea Marina in 2017. It will now be scrapped

(ROBERT MELEN)

The hulking 225-tonne Helwick was built in 1937 and has evidence of “advanced deterioration”, a Swansea Council report said.

Helwick is owned by the council and is part of its Swansea Museum collection.

Cabinet members have now approved a dry dock refurbishment prior to the 118ft vessel returning to Swansea Marina. The work is expected to cost just over £360,000.

Helwick’s accommodation, galley and mess area are unaltered since coming out of service in 1977, according to a government-funded group called National Historic Ships UK.