Work to build the first Thames sailing barge in more than 80 years, which will be completed in Maldon, has been backed by London Mayor Boris Johnson.

The hull and deck of a reconstruction of the Blue Mermaid, built in the 1930s and sunk during the Second World War, will begin within weeks.

After the initial £400,000 phaser is completed in Polruan, Cornwall, the barge will be towed to Maldon for rigging and fitting out next winter, a process which will cost about £200,000.

The Sea-Change sailing trust charity helps trainees learn traditional seamanship skills and start a maritime career- helped by the Blue Mermaid reconstruction when it becomes seaworthy in 2017.