A RESCUE package for Wirral's beleaguered historic warships could be on the horizon following the intervention of a potential benefactor.

And a revival plan could trigger the introduction of a more extensive complex with added attractions.

The prestigious docklands museum - a collection including Falklands Campaign veterans, a mystery-shrouded German U-Boat and a D-Day landing craft - was closed to the public earlier this month. The decision followed a move to develop the Grade 11-listed former corn warehouses at East Float - where the ships are berthed - into luxury apartments.

But a move to place the Warship Preservation Trust into voluntary liquidation was shelved last week to allow talks on a possible rescue operation to continue.

Jeff Irwin, company secretary to the trust, said two possible benefactors were on the scene but discussions with one were not progressing well and involvement could almost be discounted.

He said: "Talks with the other will continue; until then I can't make any sensible statement.

"We have been working very hard. The local authority have been very supportive and between us we are looking for a viable solution.

"We think the warships are a very sound tourist attraction. If the warships can be saved we could, perhaps, adopt a better entrepreneurial approach with further attractions alongside. The exhibition could be seen as a celebration of the naval heritage of Merseyside and Birkenhead in particular.

"And next year is the 25th anniversary of the Falklands Campaign in which both the submarine Onyx and the battleships Plymouth were instrumental."

The plight of the historic warships continues to attract a huge amount of emails from across the world - all expressing dismay at the loss of the historic artefacts.

Wirral Council regeneration director David Ball said he was responding to emails from Italy, Austria, Holland, Canada, America and Ireland. Mr Irwin said hundreds had been sent to the East Float museum. Many more have been received at the Globe office.

American Army Lt Col F.D. Darwin wrote: "In the grand scheme of life the loss of these ships may seem insignificant. However there are times when those of us in the present must constantly strive to preserve the past. Why? To remind future citizens that the freedom they will enjoy during their lifetime was already paid for by the blood of their ancestors. These ships do represent freedom - past, present and future."

Mr Ball commented on the possibility of a benefactor stepping in: "I am not party to some of the discussions taking place, but on the surface it looks positive. We have said from the beginning that the trust needs a further benefactor and guarantor following the retirement of Sir Philip Goodhart (trust chairman whose backing has kept the warship collection afloat and who now plans to withdraw)."

A fresh berth at Mortar Mill Quay - about 100 yards from the present location - has been offered by Mersey Docks and Harbour Company but transfer costs could amount to around £250,000.