Work has begun on restoring a boat once known as the most luxurious on the Norfolk Broads.

The Doris, built at the Brookes Boatyard in Lowestoft, Suffolk in 1930, is reputed to have been a hideaway for Prince Edward and Wallis Simpson.

During its 70-year life span, the 65ft motor cruiser has both sunk and caught fire - but now enthusiast Richard Orme is hoping to get grants to continue restoring the vessel.

He told BBC Look East: "She's a lovely thing."

Mr Orme: Five years' work needed

The Doris was built for Mr Montague Evans in 1930, and was launched in 1931.

Later owners are rumoured to have included Charlie Chaplin and George Formby.

Mr Orme bought the boat in 1996, and about four months ago brought it back to Lowestoft where he began essential repair work.

Finances permitting, he hopes to launch it once again in about five years' time.

"It's taken four months to get where we are," he said.

"We've done a hell of a lot of work in four months."