A GREAT community effort saw more than £2,000 raised for the Waverley Paddle Steamer Appeal on the weekend.

To celebrate their fifth anniversary at the Waverley Inn, Carisbrooke, Tim Bailey and Julie Higginson held a fun day on Saturday, in aid of the pub's namesake, the Waverly paddle steamer.

Championing the famous ship’s cause, the event raised the remarkable sum through several raffles, a bonus ball draw, a blind auction and a bottle tombola to name a few.

There was also live music, a cake stall, facepainting, a barbecue and even a unique Waverly Ale brewed at Goddards Brewery for visitors to enjoy.

With an appeal target of £2.3 million to re-commission the Waverley for service next summer, further funds are urgently required.

Waverley excursions general manager, Paul Semple, said: "The continued support for the boiler refit appeal has been heartening.

"We are delighted that the total raised so far is over £850,000, but time is tight if we are to reach our target and have Waverley back in service for next summer.

"I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has donated so far, as this has given us the confidence to order the boilers and electrical equipment required.

"With so many people donating, there is clearly strong support for this special ship.”

Tim and Julie are also holding an online auction, for a holiday to the IW, in a bid to raise more funds.

The package ­— which includes a two-night stay at the Waverly Inn and a two-night stay in the Westland Wessex Galahad Helicopter ­— will start at £500, with the auction commencing on September 7.

Bids can be submitted via email to bidpswaverley@gmail.com

The winner will be notified by return email and the prize will be allocated once your donation has been received by the trust.

Donations can be made directly to the appeal by visiting www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk, or by calling 0141 243 2224 or texting STEAM £20 to 70085.