A JustGiving crowdfunding page was set up to raise funds to rescue the remains of a Cornish schooner which is currently lying in the banks of the Medway river, Kent

Funds raised will go towards organising the rescue the remains of the Rhoda Mary and transport back to its birthplace in Truro, where it will be restored

The Rhoda Mary is a West Country topsail schooner Rhoda Mary, built at Point in Devoran in 1868.

Andrew Mullen, who set up the JustGiving page, runs a company which works with charities in Devon and Cornwall.

Writing on his page, Andrew said: “Merchant schooners were once a familiar sight around the Cornish coast, carrying Cornishmen on trading journeys around the globe and famed for their elegance and speed.”

Adding: “Grant funding has been applied for to provide the significant resources required to carry out the recovery of the remains from the banks of the River Medway.”

“In anticipation of this the Project needs financial help to employ a part time staff member to deal with the constant flow of enquiries that has been generated.”

He continued: “In the process, training and educational opportunities in wooden ship construction and associated trades will be provided to young people.”

Donors left messages of support on the JustGiving page. One wrote: “In honour of the fearless little man with the indomitable spirit, my uncle Ev, who bought the Rhoda Mary in 1927 and chugged all the way from Padstow to Chatham. May she live again!

Another said: “Donation to celebrate Uncle George's birthday - born in Feock, Nov 16, 1924, proudly a Ferris and part of the Canadian contingent supporting the Rhoda Mary Project.”