The future for a replica 17th century sailing ship commemorating the Island's first settlers is sinking fast unless a last-minute benefactor can be found.

In the midst of Heritage Month and with Bermuda's 400th anniversary celebrations on the horizon, MPs are now issuing a rallying cry to save the Deliverance.

The future of the St. George's historic landmark looks bleak unless $1 million can be found to preserve it. Owner Nick Duffy, who ran the ship as a tourist attraction, is willing to hand over the 54-foot long wooden replica free of charge, but it seems the renovation costs are keeping potential new owners at bay.

In recent months the St. George's Foundation, Corporation of St. George's and Government have all appealed to businesses and charities to come forward, but a suitable benefactor has not emerged.

Yesterday, Kim Swan, MP for St. George's West and Leader of the Opposition, said: "The Deliverance is one of the icons of Bermuda and for that reason, we feel it is essential it be preserved.

"We are, however, concerned with the $1 million estimate to restore the vessel, and think it may be the reason people and institutions have not stepped forward to support the project.

"In that regard, we suggest that additional bids be solicited along with ideas on how the project can be moved forward. Bermuda will celebrate its 400th anniversary next year and the ship's critical role in our early history should be part of the celebrations."

Dame Jennifer Smith, PLP MP for St. George's North, said: "Some time ago I was involved, along with Mr. Henry Hayward (St. George's Foundation chairman), in trying to get a Government-private industry coalition together to save this replica. Our efforts never came to fruition although Government was willing to help."

She said: "Government certainly could not and should not assume the whole cost, therefore the need for a partner(s).

"Based on public reaction, or lack thereof, there is no will to become involved in this particular effort. There are so many disparate needs that occupy the time and money of Bermudians that this formerly private enterprise does not seem to get on the list."

But Dame Jennifer added: "I do think that if the Corporation, or the Bermuda National Trust, or some body with a passion were to spearhead an effort — then perhaps it could be saved. Without such passion, I see no future for this replica."

The square-rigged model ship was built 40 years ago by the Bermuda Junior Service League in tribute to the vessel which accompanied the Patience to Jamestown, Virginia, in the New World in 1610.

In the past the replica Deliverance was a popular tourist attraction. It also hosted cocktail parties, concerts, art exhibitions and even weddings from its location at Ordnance Island.

Officials, however, say neglect has now resulted in the former landmark becoming a hazard — Mr. Duffy moved to France a few years ago, putting the model up for sale.

Up to $1 million is needed to renovate the Deliverance, but a new owner will also have to pay an annual lease to the Corporation and fund the structure's maintenance costs. The ship is constructed from wood but has concrete foundations.

St. George's mayor Mariea Casey was unavailable for comment yesterday, but told the Mid-Ocean News on May 9: "It is very important that it gets repaired because right now it's a hazard. It is in disarray and is a liability."

She also stressed the importance of the Deliverance to the town's history, saying: "It's a major part of the town and no one wants to see it just sitting there rotting."

Mr. Hayward, St. George's Foundation chairman, also told our sister paper: "Between ourselves, Mr. Duffy and the Corporation of St. George's, we've been trying to get someone interested in taking it on, but if no one comes up with something very, very soon, it will have to be demolished."

In an email to The Royal Gazette, readers Toppy and Saundra Cowen said: "We are very disappointed to see the terrible condition of The Deliverance in St. George's.

"This should be a vital part of Bermuda's only World Heritage Site. It's a crying shame when one considers that Jamestown, Virginia, has three — not one — replicas of the ships that landed settlers there two years before us, and they are in excellent condition with regular demonstrations for visitors.

"Could this 'lost cause of a ship' be the catalyst for the re-energising of the World Heritage Township?"

l Were you an original member of the Bermuda Junior Service League which built the Deliverance in the 1960s? Contact: news@royalgazette.bm.