Explorer awarded £20,000 conservation grant

The Explorer, has been awarded a grant of £20,000 by The Pilgrim Trust to support the development of a Conservation Management Plan for the “Explorer”, one of Scotland’s National Historic Ships.

The Conservation Management Plan will be based on the guidelines outlined in the Conserving Historic Ships publication released by National Historic Ships - UK. This is a vital document for the long-term preservation of The Explorer and will be used for planning and completing the vessel's preservation efforts.

The Explorer has awarded the contract for this work to the Edinburgh office of Wessex Archaeology, who will begin work before the end of March and deliver the completed Plan before the end of October.

The grant from The Pilgrim Trust will play a critical role in the conservation efforts of The Explorer. The vessel is an important part of Scotland’s maritime heritage and is a testament to our shipbuilding industry. The Conservation Management Plan will ensure that the vessel is preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

"We are incredibly grateful to The Pilgrim Trust for their support," said Richard Morrison, Chairman of The Explorer. "This grant will enable us to take an important step forward in our efforts to preserve The Explorer for future generations. We are also delighted to be working with Wessex Archaeology, who have an impressive track record in the conservation of historic vessels."

The development of the Conservation Management Plan is a significant project, and the completed document will serve as a blueprint for the preservation and maintenance of The Explorer for years to come. The Explorer is committed to ensuring that the vessel is preserved for future generations and that its historical significance is recognised and appreciated, giving the past a future.