AN iconic pirate radio ship is wanting to drop its anchor in Maldon.

Radio Caroline, famous as the pirate radio station that started the nation’s commercial radio explosion in the 1960s, may be returning its famous Ross Revenge vessel to the district after a 17-year absence.

It currently broadcasts from Tilbury Docks, but station managers are seeking an East Anglia location for its medium wave frequency and a new home for the Ross Revenge, which was built in 1960 and used by the station for eight years between 1983 and 1991.

A spokesman confirmed there was “official interest” in bringing the ship back to Maldon.

The 980-tonne ship had previously been in the Blackwater, at Bradwell, for two years, between 1993 and 1995.

Several station staff have links to the area, and the station is also helping with the restoration of the steam tug Brent, which is moored on the town’s riverside.

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S MALDON AND BURNHAM STANDARD