A LANDMARK statue commemorating the legendary explorer Captain James Cook could be restored to its former glory.

The iconic statue, overlooking Whitby harbour and Abbey, is in need of serious restoration after suffering from decades of North Sea gales since it was erected to commemorate Cook’s South Sea voyages of discovery.

The Captain’s famous ships, Adventure, Resolution and Endeavour were built and sailed from Whitby and now hopes are high that the statue can be restored in time to mark the 250th anniversary of the Marton-born explorer in the summer.

Charles Forgan who runs the harbourside Captain Cook Memorial Museum and is treasurer of the Cook Tourism Association, said: “The main plaque on the statue is virtually illegible and other panels needs attention.

“All the pointing to the masonry has been washed out.”

A condition report on the statue has been produced and Mr Forgan said: “A budget of £50,000 for repair and conservation work to be carried out by specialists was indicated and £30,000 has been pledged mainly by private interests.”

He said the Cook Association is working with Borough Council officers who are now seeking tenders for the work.

“When we know what the funding gap is, we will set together to fill it, said Mr Forgan, who added that it was hoped that the work could be carried out and finished by the opening of the Big Captain Cook Festival in Whitby on July 6.