Published: Monday, 15th March, 2010 4:55pm

'We'll join with Oz to save the Carrick'

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SUNDERLAND campaigners hoping to save the Carrick have said they will join forces with their Australian rivals - just as the Scottish Culture Minister announced an official investigation into the future of the clipper.

The culture boss has ordered a detailed evaluation outlining the "realistic options" for the boat - but her list does NOT seem to include a shared bid from England and Australia.

Meanwhile, Sunderland councillor Peter Maddision, who last year boarded the 145-year-old ship as part of a protest, has said it would be "irresponsible" not to explore every avenue that would save the boat, also known as the Adelaide, from destruction.

He said: "We are always ready to talk with and enter into any useful working relationship with anyone who has the ships best interest first.

"Surely along with the Australian group our resources combined will better be able to serve the Adelaide. We in Sunderland look forward to that meeting."

And at the Scottish Parliament, local MSP Irene Oldfather has asked what progress had been made regarding the relocation of the boat from its site at Irvine's Maritime Museum.

See teh Times for the full story.