THE Waverley paddle steamer has had to cancel plans for sailings "south of the Clyde" due to staff shortages. 

The popular ship that generations of Glaswegians have enjoyed announced the move on social media earlier today.

They said: "We had been planning to take Waverley south beyond the Clyde at the end of August, however owing to crew availability this will no longer be possible.

Like many tourism businesses, we have been affected by staff shortages this summer and there is now a certainty that we will not be able to fully crew Waverley until mid-October."

It's not all bad news for sailing fans however. Availability on local sailings is good, and there is a rare opportunity to sail to Campbeltown on the iconic boat on Monday, August 23.

The steamer added: "We are though now planning to operate on the Clyde until mid-September and hope to release further sailings in the comings days. Watch out for a timetable update and make sure you get aboard Waverley this September.

We currently have good availability on most sailings until August 29. Book online now at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or buy tickets on board when you sail.

This coming Monday (August 23) Waverley will undertake a rare sailing from Glasgow to Campbeltown. Tickets for this sailing are available."