A REPLICA of one of Naval history's most famous ships sails to the North-East this week to help conserve another well-known vessel.

The full-rigged ship built for the 1960 MGM film, Mutiny on the Bounty, berths on the Tyne in Newcastle, on Thursday, September 6, for a three-day visit to help raise funds for the Cutty Sark Conservation Appeal.

Newcastle is one of four ports being visited as part of a tour to promote the appeal to repair the Cutty Sark, which was severely damaged by fire at Greenwich, in London, in May.

The Cutty Sark, launched in 1869, remains the only tea clipper still in existence, and is the focal point of a World Heritage Site highlighting maritime history, at Greenwich.

This week's visit has been organised by the Tall Ship Bounty Organisation, owners of the replica, which has also appeared in other feature films, including Treasure Island, Yellow Beard, Sponge Bob Square Pants, and Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean - Dead Man's Chest.

The Lord Mayor of Newcastle, councillor Peter Arnold, and other civic dignitaries will go on board on Thursday to offer his support for the Cutty Sark Appeal.

Coun Arnold, who has "a keen interest in the sea and sailing", said: "I'm looking forward to visiting the HMS Bounty when she makes her first visit to our city, and to supporting the conservation of the Cutty Sark.

"It has played a massive role in our history, and continues to do so for this and future generations."

HMS Bounty will be open to the public, at Spiller's Wharf, this Friday, September 7, from 10am - 5.30pm.

It will also be open from 10.30am on Saturday, during Newcastle's Fair Trade Festival, before sailing from the Tyne, at around 4pm.

Entry is £5 for adults, £2.50 for children, or £12.50 for a family ticket, with proceeds going to the Cutty Sark Conservation Appeal.