The HMS Trincomalee Trust is launching a fundraising appeal to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the historic ship’s launch.
The HMS Trincomalee Trust hopes to raise £1million to help secure the long-term future of the record-breaking ship, which is currently moored at Jackson Dock, within Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience.
As an independent charity, the HMS Trincomalee Trust depends entirely on income from visitors, corporate hospitality, weddings, filming and fundraising to preserve the ship. Currently the annual maintenance and running costs are in the region of £300,000.
Launched in 1817, HMS Trincomalee has sailed waters the world over and served as an active warship protecting British interests in the Pacific, Atlantic and Caribbean before going into semi-retirement as a training ship, renamed Foudroyant, finally ending up in Hartlepool where it was restored to its former glory.
David McKnight, General Manager of HMS Trincomalee, said: “This is a landmark anniversary of international importance and one that we’re really excited about. HMS Trincomalee is one of the world’s most historically significant ships. We want her to still be floating in another 200 years, so she can be enjoyed by future generations.
“We hope that the appeal will raise much-needed funds and awareness of an important piece of Maritime history. We want people from around the country and across the globe to visit the ship.
“To support the appeal, a fundraising co-coordinator will be appointed with a remit to work with business and the community to raise as much money as possible.
“HMS Trincomalee currently costs approximately £300,000 a year to maintain, so it’s crucial that we secure a funding pot that can contribute to the running and maintenance costs and provide us with a safety blanket should there be unexpected repairs needed.”