A historic day as the sailing ship 'City of Adelaide' - formerly 'HMS Carrick' - was formally handed over into the care of the Clipper Ship City of Adelaide Ltd.
This South Australian charitable organisation intend to restore her to her former glory and she will have a new life in Australia.
Sam Galbraith of the Scottish Maritime Museum passed ownership to Peter Christopher - one of their directors - in a ceremony at the Linthouse.
She will now be towed to London by the tug 'Dutch Pioneer' and then continue her journey half way around the world, finally arriving in Port Adelaide in the spring of next year.
There was a peaceful protest group from 'SCARF' and they had hoped the vessel would remain in the UK for restoration. Sadly this wasn't to be, however the fact that she has been saved and will be preserved is perhaps the most important outcome.
Peter Christopher Receiving Ownership from Sam Galbraith of the Scottish Maritime Museum
Local Schoolboy Reads Extracts from Letters
Lone Piper Leads the Guests and Dignitaries
'SCARF' Protestors from Sunderland
School Kids Join in the Day
More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.co.uk - better resolution and options to licence.