AN HISTORIC ship which was due to begin its sailing season from Penarth last week will now start this week after a defect forced her first trip to be cancelled.

Last week just before Balmoral was due to start her 2017 season, a minor defect was found by the crew and officers who thought it best that she re-entered Sharpness Dry Dock for investigation and remedial action.

The defect was not apparent during routine dry docking and inspection earlier in the month and may have come to light through the stresses which usually occur during dry docking and refloating.

The repair work has now been completed.

Paul Doubler, trustee of the MV Balmoral said: "There really could be no finer cruise to start our season.

"On Thursday June 1, we sail from Penarth at 9.45am for the classic channel cruise to Minehead and Ilfracombe with the exciting opportunity of a steam train journey on the West Somerset Railway or five hours ashore in Ilfracombe.

"Then on Friday it’s an unusual and rare opportunity to visit the north Devon picturesque town of Watchet, again with a West Somerset Railway opportunity.

"Saturday’s cruise is now sold out but on Sunday it’s over the channel to Clevedon, for plenty of time ashore or stay onboard for a wonderful sail up the famous River Avon to Bristol, then up the River Seven sailing under its famous bridges."

The Balmoral will then return to Penarth on Friday, July 28.

Full details of Balmoral's sailings and tickets are available at www.whitefunnel.co.uk.