Paddle Steamer Waverley

I’ve dug out my collection of books and postcards relating to Clyde Steamers.  If you don’t know already, the River Clyde runs through Glasgow and then forms into a scenic, mountainous estuary dotted with peninsulas and islands. (See extra pic.) It is my favourite part of the world bar none and the best way to see it is by boat.
   When I was a child we often sailed on the steamers, of which there were quite a number back then. Now there is just one, PS Waverley (1947), coming up for eighty years in service, the longest lifespan span by far for any Clyde vessel.  I will admit to some nostalgia but happily we can can still experience the thrill of sailing on the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world, and I hope to do so again this summer.
    A few years ago I stood on Helensburgh pier as Waverley plootered towards us looking like an over-sized duck. (Her paddle boxes stick out.) A lady from a coach party suddenly exclaimed; ‘Oh!...She’s so beautiful...' and the eyes of your blipmate misted up.
    Now when I’m aboard, she only has to blast her steam horn, and the same thing happens. It’s a lifelong love affair.