The Medway Queen, celebrated as the Heroine of Dunkirk, edges closer towards full restoration as she takes part in this year’s 75th anniversary of Operation Dynamo in Ramsgate.

This historic paddle steamer, once a sleepy pleasure cruiser sailing from popular Kent resorts, earned battle honours by rescuing 7,000 troops from the beaches of Dunkirk, more than any other of the “little ships”.

To commemorate this outstanding achievement, she will be joining other surviving vessels in Ramsgate from May 20-25.

She will be carrying an on-board display, with 7,000 model Airfix soldiers, each one of which can be “rescued” for a small donation to the ship’s restoration fund.

The aim is to remove all 7,000 soldiers, raising money and awareness of the Medway Queen’s plight.

Hard on the heels of recent VE celebrations, the story of this remarkable ship epitomises the determination of a few hardy souls to do incredible things against all odds.

This is reflected not only in her brave actions at Dunkirk but also in the tireless work of The Medway Queen Preservation Society.

John Kempton, society vice-chairman, said: “We are delighted that thanks to the hard work of members, patrons and staff, the ship is all set to attend the 75th anniversary commemorations of the Dunkirk evacuation at Ramsgate.

“We hope that this novel idea to save a ‘soldier’ will appeal to our visitors as well as bring home the important role the Medway Queen played in Operation Dynamo.”

After languishing in Damhead Creek, near Hoo, for many years, this forsaken national treasure has since received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the European Union, enabling the hull to be completely rebuilt.

This makes her the first ship of this size to be riveted in the UK for 50 years.

Admiral Lord West of Spithead and his contacts with the Gosling Foundation, have made it possible for the ship to attend these commemorations.

The Medway Queen is due to be towed tomorrow (Saturday) to Ramsgate Harbour from Gillingham Pier, where she is undergoing restoration, for the commemorations.