An £80,000 restoration of a dilapidated oyster yawl in Whitstable Harbour is receiving a helping hand from historic Kent brewer Shepherd Neame.

The Faversham-based pub company is making a financial contribution to the delicate restoration project as they sponsor the once-thriving boat.

Named the Gamecock, the 114-year-old vessel is recognised for its great historical importance in the town’s famous fishing industry, and is now being given a new lease life ahead of it being reintroduced to the water.

A vessel of the same design as the 42ft boat is the logo of Shepherd Neame's popular Whitstable Bay beer range.

The Gamecock also shares its history with the brewer due to the fact it was built in Island Wall, just yards from the Smack Inn - a pub run by the Faversham firm.

Giles Hilton, head of customer relations at Shepherd Name, said: “We take pride on being at the heart of its community, and when we were approached to support this fantastic local project, we were delighted to get involved.

"The Gamecock is not only an important part of our Kent heritage, but it also has a special connection to Shepherd Neame as this type of oyster yawl helped inspire the design for our Whitstable Bay range.”

The boat, which previously dredged the coastline for native oysters, fell into a state of disrepair and became too dangerous to sail.

But rather than being left to the history books, the restoration team at Whitstable Maritime began the lengthy repairs of the hull in 2017.

Last summer the Gamecock was moved from in the Swale Marina at Conyer, back to its original base in Whitstable where it now resides at the South Quay.

Gordon Vincent, chairman and founder of Maritime group, said: “Through the efforts of volunteers in the community and partners such as Shepherd Neame we aim to restore the Gamecock to working order so that she will once again be seen in the Swale, not just on Whitstable Bay bottles.

“As a nation we are quick to preserve naval or iconic vessels that served the interests of the wealthy, but are less caring when it comes to humble working craft that are just as much a part of our maritime heritage.”

The volunteer-led renovation - which requires extensive work to the stern, decking and rigging - is estimated to last for two more years.

Once complete, the vessel is set to offer sail-training for youngsters, adventure holidays, education programmes, and therapeutic experiences for medical conditions.

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable