The site will help to inform decisions by public and private owners, government departments and funding bodies where the priorities for preservation should lie and give early warning of any vessels 'at risk'.

The re-launched website has been developed to improve its ease of use and functionality.

Visitors will be able to find information about types of construction, dimensions, designer, builder and current location as well as images of the ships listed. A new feature on the site enables owners to submit their applications for registration directly onto the NRHV.

The chairman of the National historic Ships Committee, Richard Woodman said, 'This is another step forward for the historic ship movement in this country. The development of everyone's knowledge and awareness of this extraordinary cultural resource is hugely important to the NHSC.'

MJ Information No: 20712