The project has been developed by staff and volunteers at the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port to enable the conservation and restoration of Mossdale and George - two of the most important boats in the museum’s designated collection for use as an educational outreach facility and educational resource for schools and visitors.

The wider Window on the World project will open up Ellesmere Port’s historic slipway to the public for the first time. The slipway occupies a unique position overlooking the River Mersey estuary and Manchester Ship Canal and testifies to the site’s history as an intermodal port, a ‘Window on the World’.

The project contributes to the wider regeneration of the Ellesmere Port waterfront and will develop opportunities for greater interpretation and visitor facilities at the National Waterway Museum to bring to life the story of the history of the canal network and its links to the Mersey estuary.

Debbie Lumb, Head of Museums and Attractions at Canal & River Trust, said: "Mossdale and George are of national importance. Thanks to HLF, progressing the restoration of these boats will enable us to tell the story of how past generations lived and worked, and gives us the opportunity to bring them back to life so that future generations can learn about this important part of our history."

Sara Hilton, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund North West, added: "Our industrial heritage is something we can all take pride in. It makes us who we are today. I'm delighted that this award will preserve Mossdale and George and pass on experiences from our working past to future generations."

Further information

To find out more about the National Waterways Museum please go to Canal & River Trust's National Waterways Museum page.