AN international appeal by a Falklands War veteran to save the Royal Navy's last steam-powered warship as a floating museum looks like being sunk by public apathy.

Former Royal Marine Colin Waite has only managed to find £330 in his bid to save defunct assault ship HMS Fearless, a far cry from the £2m he needs to buy the vessel.

Mr Waite, 43, from Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham, served on the warship during the conflict 20 years ago.

He hoped to transform it into a lasting memorial to the soldiers who fought and died in the war.

But unless more support can be found, Mr Waite fears the ship will be sold to the Brazilian government.

Mr Waite said: "I have just about exhausted my own resources to keep this campaign alive and, with time running out, I don't think I can keep it running for much longer.

"I am still determined to make this work, but when you get more support from America than your own country, it does leave you wondering.

"People are always willing to give vocal support but never want to dip their hands into their pockets and, unless I receive financial support from businesses and the public, we are going to lose the Fearless and everything she stands for."

Mr Waite, who suffered from post traumatic stress disorder because of his experiences in the war, has only weeks to raise the money.

Downing Street has refused to support the campaign.

A spokesman for No 10 said: "When battleships are decommissioned, they are sold off, and that has always been the case. HMS Fearless has served the country admirably, but it will be replaced.

"It has been in active service for many years and sadly, we can't make an exception for her, but we are very proud of the role she has played, especially in the Falklands conflict."

To support the Save the Fearless campaign, visit the website at www.hmsfearless.co.uk, or call Mr Waite on (01833) 640501