A CRUISE leaves Minehead next Friday, June 17, in honour of the men who served aboard paddle steamers in World War Two. And all veterans who board famous paddle steamer Waverley for the trip are invited to 'bring a friend for free' - there is a free ticket for veterans with every adult ticket purchased. They will be joined by the Penarth Male Voice Choir singing popular songs of the war years. Waverley will set sail from Minehead harbour at 1.45pm and steam along the Exmoor coast and Porlock bay. All the paddle steamers of the Bristol Channel White Funnel fleet served with distinction during the war and many were lost on active service. The Gwalia and Lady Moyra were lost during the evacuation of Dunkirk, Glen Avon was sunk off the French coast and the old Waverley was sunk by aerial bombing off the Tyne. And Cambria and Westward Ho returned so worn- out from war service that their had to be broken up. But others survived to see another day - the Glen Usk, Glen Gower and Ravenswood sailed on pleasure trips having served at Dunkirk and as minesweepers. Many local men went to war with the White Funnel paddle steamers and it is hoped some of them will be among those boarding the Waverley on Friday. Tickets can be booked by credit card on 0845 130 4647 or bought from Minehead and Taunton Tourist Information Centres. Passengers can also but tickets on board when they set sail.