A famous "fish and chip boat" that was once synonymous with Liverpool was a fixture on the River Mersey for more than 40 years.
The Royal Iris was built for £256,000 at Dumbarton on the Clyde in 1950, before coming to Merseyside the following year. The once-grand ferry was diesel-powered, making it the first non-steam ferry to cross the Mersey. It also inspired Gerry Marsden's iconic anthem Ferry Cross the Mersey, as well as hosting The Beatles the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in its time.
In December 1950, the ECHO reported how the 1,448-ton vessel boasted a pillarless dance hall, a smoke room, a fish and chips saloon, bars and buffets, and air conditioning throughout. But many will still have fond memories of the boat that was affectionately nicknamed "the love boat" - and "the fish and chip boat."
