A HAMPSHIRE steamship will be back in action in June after being awarded more than £60,000 by the government.

The Southampton-based Shieldhall is among the latest attractions to benefit from the Culture Recovery Fund, which aims to help the nation's heritage survive the economic impact of the pandemic.

It comes just weeks after Shieldhall was named Small Tourist Attraction of the Year at Tourism South East’s Beautiful South Awards for Excellence.

The grant will enable the Steamship Shieldhall Charity (SSC) to launch its summer cruise programme in two months' time.

Shieldhall, a member of the National Historic Fleet, is due to complete more than 20 voyages under Covid-compliant conditions.

Captain John Rose, chairman of SSC, said: "The grant is a further marvellous boost for our volunteers.

"With the government road map now set out, we are welcoming volunteers back to the ship and are preparing her to enter dry dock in Falmouth next month.

"The grant will assist Shieldhall in obtaining the industry-standard Good to Go marque.

"We can’t wait to get back out on the water and once more witness the departure of Southampton cruise ships as well as providing a great viewing platform for events such as the Round the Island and Fastnet Races.

"Whilst we may have lost the 2020 sailing season, Shieldhall remains in great shape and will be celebrating her 66th birthday in style in July."

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden added: "Our record-breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced.

"Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors."

Duncan Wilson is chief executive of Historic England.

He said: "The value of our heritage sites and the people who run them has been amply demonstrated, as they have provided an anchor for so many of us through the dark days of the last year.

"Vital grants from the Culture Recovery Fund have helped them survive and will now help them recover."

Ros Kerslake, chief executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: "Spring is definitely here, bringing not only sunshine but that sense of optimism and hope for the future.

"We are all looking forward to heritage places and other visitor attractions reopening.

"I am very pleased we have been able to support DCMS in delivering this vital funding to ensure the UK’s heritage sector can rebuild and thrive, boosting local economies, creating jobs and supporting personal wellbeing.”