THE famous cruiser Balmoral looks set to increase her number of visits to Lydney from two to three next year.

Subject to finding suitable tidal conditions, the charity running the vessel say they would like to increase the number of Severn sailings to at least three.

Balmoral made her second visit last week, picking up at Lydney and then crossing the river to Sharpness before cruising to Clevedon and on to Ilfracombe. Passengers then cruise on to Penarth, returning to Lydney by coach.

A spokesman said: "Ideally we would like at least three trips a year to Lydney but because of the tides it is not always possible. We are working on the schedules for next year and hopefully we will get the opportunity of an extra visit."

Since her return to cruising to Lydney began, the Balmoral visits have proved hugely successful. Each visit has drawn an average of 250 passengers.

Balmoral was built in Southampton in 1949 and first came to the Bristol Channel as part of the P and A Campbell's fleet. When they ceased operation in 1980 she was sold to Dundee to become a floating restaurant and there she stood unsuccessful and gradually falling into disrepair. Rescued by supporters of the Waverley she returned to service in 1986, spending her summers in the Bristol Channel. She was refitted with new engines in the winter of 2002.