LEGENDARY artist Sir Peter Blake visited Liverpool after it was announced the Snowdrop ‘Dazzle’ ferry will remain in service until 2019.

The Snowdrop was due to be returned to her original paintwork at the end of 2016 following a two-year long project commissioned by Liverpool Biennial, Tate Liverpool and 14-18 NOW: WW1 Centenary Art Commissions.

The extension will see the Dazzle Ferry through Liverpool’s 10-year anniversary of ‘European Capital of Culture’ and the continuing First World War commemorations.

Unlike other forms of camouflage, dazzle works not by concealing but by baffling the eye, making it difficult to estimate a target’s range, speed and direction.

As well as being a moving artwork, visitors who board the Snowdrop can learn more about the history of dazzle and the role that the Mersey Ferries took in the First World War in a display developed by curators from National Museums Liverpool and Tate Liverpool.

To celebrate the ferry’s artwork extension, Sir Peter Blake spoke art historian and writer Richard Cork at the Museum of Liverpool about the artist’s commission and wider practice.

Head of customer delivery and operational responsibility for the Mersey Ferries, Gary Evans said: “The Dazzle Ferry has become very much part of our spectacular waterfront and attracting interest from around the world.

“It is therefore fitting that we extend the life of the Snowdrop’s colourful livery for the full length of the First World War commemorations and to have it in support of future City Region events, such as 50 Summers of Love and the 10-year anniversary of European Capital of Culture.”

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album release - the cover for which was designed by Sir Peter Blake, and due to this, the Dazzle Ferry will form part of Liverpool’s 50 Summers of Love celebration.

The Dazzle Ferry has been extremely popular with both residents and tourists.

Sally Tallant director of Liverpool Biennial said: “Everybody Razzle Dazzle has been seen and experienced by more than 5 million people to date and has become an iconic public artwork for the city.

“We are delighted that it will remain for another two years, meaning many more visitors will be able to enjoy the commission, and are really grateful to Sir Peter Blake for his generous support for the extension.”