WITH weeks to go until it reopens, the Cutty Sark has been given a further boost with sponsorship by a major high street bank.

In a four-year project, HSBC will sponsor the Cutty Sark Trust for an undisclosed sum, following the famous ship's restoration.

The trust and the bank say their new partnership reflects a shared history in global trade.

While the clipper travelled around the world bringing tea from China and wool from Australia, HSBC was financing trade between Asia and the west.

Chairman of the trust Lord Sterling said: "Having been founded in the same era as the ship was originally built, they are a splendid partner to help bring the Cutty Sark’s colourful history to the attention of families worldwide in the generations to come."

A spokesman denied there would be any of the bank's branding at the ship, which reopens to the public on April 26.