CIVIC chiefs have been accused of being "totally indifferent" to the fate of a ship that took part in the D-Day landings.

Owners of Calshot have been told to find a new home for the historic craft, which is currently occupying a berth at Southampton docks.

Members of the Tug Tender Calshot Trust are determined to preserve the 91-year-old vessel for future generations.

Daily Echo:

They say she should be used to highlight the city's contribution to the Normandy landings, which changed the course of the Second World War.

Southampton City Council is being urged to throw its support behind the proposal.

Trust chairman Terry Yarwood said: "The ideal location for the ship would be a dry berth between the derelict Royal Pier and the Red Funnel terminal.

"Southampton would at long last have a new heritage visitor attraction and officially recognise the city's involvement in the invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe.

"Unfortunately councillors and city councillors are totally indifferent to the plight of Calshot. They have not even visited the vessel.

"Southampton played a major role in preparations for the D-Day landings, with hundreds of thousands of British and American soldiers based around Southampton Water.

"Every road, lane and field surrounding the city was filled with military vehicles and personnel.

Daily Echo:

"Hundreds of landing craft were assembled in the city's Western Docks. An incredible two-thirds of all those who were part of the initial assault sailed from Southampton.

"If our efforts succeed Calshot's tall red funnel, when lit at night, will be a dominant feature which will act as a welcoming beacon."

A council spokesperson said: "”Issues with the Tug Tender Calshot are complex and have been subject to ongoing discussions between a number of interested parties for some time.

"The council will continue those discussions in good faith in the hope that a future for the tug can be secured."