THIS June, the "iconic" Waverley paddle-steamer will be returning to the Bristol Channel.

Waverley first visited the Bristol Channel in 1979 sailing in the wake of the famous White Funnel Fleet of pleasure steamers which operated until the 60s.

Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson from the Visit Weston-super-Mare team said: "A'hoy there.

"The Waverley paddle-steamer is planning to return to the Bristol Channel for three weeks in June following last year's sell out sailings.

"The iconic boat - which is the world's last sea-going paddle-steamer - is currently undergoing its winter refit while the 2024 timetables are being confirmed.

"Last year it docked in both Weston-super-Mare and Clevedon."

Speaking last year, Waverley’s general manager Paul Semple said: "The ship offers a truly unique experience and I know many will welcome the sight of her famous red, white and black funnels and the distinct sound of her paddles beating."