THE largest passenger steamship still active in northern Europe will play a key role in the Poole Harbour Boat Show this summer.

This Daily Echo-backed event, which attracted more than 30,000 visitors in 2019, will welcome the historic SS Shieldhall to Poole Quay, where it will be moored for the duration of the three-day maritime show.

Entry to the ship, which boasts technology similar to that used on the Titanic, will be free.

Poole Harbour Commissioners marketing manager and Poole Harbour Boat Show spokesman Tracy Payne said: “We are delighted to welcome the SS Shieldhall to this year’s show.

“She is a unique attraction with universal appeal for everyone interested in boating.

“A living piece of history which will help build on what is already one of the most well attended boat shows in the UK.”

Since 1988 SS Shieldhall has been owned and operated by volunteers who have worked extensively to restore the steamship to her original 1956 condition.

She is a frequent sight running regular cruises along the south coast, during which passengers are encouraged to visit the bridge and machinery spaces.

Shieldhall marketing director Nigel Philpott said: “Shieldhall is 65 years young this year and it will be a fitting birthday celebration to steam to Poole Quay to take part in the boat show.

“Our volunteers are looking forward to welcoming everyone on board, where they will be able to answer any questions that show visitors may have concerning the opera-ion of a steamship.

“All areas of the ship including the engine room, boiler room, bridge and f’ocsle will be open.

“Youngsters will be able to have fun with our interactive log book, collecting stickers from various stations on board.

“For those wishing to experience a cruise at sea and see Shieldhall under steam, we will be selling tickets for our return cruise to Southampton on Monday, June 15, departing Poole Quay at 12 noon.”

The Poole Harbour Boat Show and SS Shieldhall will open daily, 10am-5pm, from June 12-14.

Visit pooleharbourboatshow.co.uk for more details on the vessel and other attractions at the show.