A Dundee landmark could be enhanced using modern technology in an unusual restoration appeal.
Over the years the ship wheel on the 190-year-old HMS Unicorn has been left in a poor state of repair.
Docked in the City Quay, the ravages of time, frequent handling and previous repair work have all had an effect on the wheel which has some of its handles missing.
Now the ship’s custodians are calling on wood turners and 3D printers to take part in a restoration project.
The Unicorn has issued an appeal for anyone with the skills to recreate the handles.
George Call, of the Unicorn Preservation Society, said over the years Dundee had lost many of its old shipbuilding skills but modern technology could be the answer.
He said: “I spoke to someone about 3D printing and they told me they could take a 3D image of one of the handles then recreate one that is exactly the same as the original.
“We could do it both ways. Either wood turners could do the job conventionally or we could use 3D printing.
“Unfortunately we don’t have the skills available any more that we did when shipbuilding took place in Dundee.
“But the idea of using technology from today to help the ship is quite exciting.
“Probably the most worn thing on the ship is the wheel. If we could get it sorted out it would be great.”
Robert Hovell, ship manager, said previous work to remove white paint from the ancient wheel had also loosened the glue.
He said: “It is 190 years old and is suffering a bit.
“Unlike a lot of other places we do let people touch things and children in particular always want to spin the wheel.”
Anyone who thinks they might be able to help and would like to lend a hand in the rare project can contact the ship team on 01382 200900.