An historic vessel that once plied the Caledonian Canal could be restored to its former glory under a new restoration scheme.
The 84-year-old Scot II was operated as a tug and ice-breaker on the canal from its Fort Augustus berth but is currently a hulk laid up in a derelict state at the village.
Later in her interesting life, the Scot II was operated by the former British Waterways Board as a cruise boat sailing from Inverness out into Loch Ness as far as Urquhart Castle.
Built in 1931 in Leith, Scot II latterly went to Laggan Locks on the canal as a floating pub and restaurant, before being sold and taken down to Bute for intended improvement works.
However, the vessel deteriorated to the point that it sunk near to a boatyard on the island.
Former canal employees Jim and Dan Clark then bought the Scot, and she was towed back up to Fort Augustus about four years ago.
Local businessman and lifelong fan of the Scot II, George Nixon, has now set up a charity to try and breath new life into the vessel.
The Scot II and Historic Vessels Renovation and Preservation Society aims to rebuild the vessel to its original Lloyds 100 A1 classification over a five year project costing about £700,000.
If all goes well the 75ft long vessel will be available for Inverness College UHI to incorporate into their apprenticeship courses for students working in fabrication welding, plating work, engine work and electrical systems.
Mr Nixon, Scot II restoration project chairman, said: “The Caledonian Canal was so vitally important to the resurrection of the Highlands and its population. It had an enormous impact on the Highlands and it is still a large community of customers, lock keepers and employees.
“The Scot II was a vital part of that and she was built specifically for that and I feel she is part of the heritage of the Highlands and the Great Glen.
“There is a lot of affection out there for her.”
The charity is appealing to anyone who knows where the original parts of the Scot II are, as part of the salvage operation.
Recently the original boat’s wheelhouse was found at a Muir of Ord croft and was being used as a hen house.
The charity wants to use her as an ice breaker again and as a floating museum for community and educational trips.
The restoration project was given a boost after getting the help of a skilled loftsman who has already drawn up a schedule for the project, and a maritime computer aided designer who has compiled the drawings.
Anyone who can help the project should get in touch with Mr Nixon via the Save the Scot II page on various social media sites.