A SHIP used to broadcast a hit pirate radio station in the 1980s has made a mysterious return to the Suffolk coast.The distinctive red, white and blue MV Communicator arrived in Lowestoft harbour at the end of December but its new owners are remaining tight-lipped about its future.

A SHIP used to broadcast a hit pirate radio station in the 1980s has made a mysterious return to the Suffolk coast.

The distinctive red, white and blue MV Communicator arrived in Lowestoft harbour at the end of December but its new owners are remaining tight-lipped about its future.

Once used to broadcast cult radio station Laser 558 to around 10 million listeners across the south east of England and Europe, it seems the boat could once again be hitting the air-waves.

Laser 558 disappeared from the air in 1987 and in the proceeding 17 years the Communicator has changed hands many times.

Its current owners are New York-based company The Super Station, who describe themselves as an "ethical radio group."

They purchased the boat from entertainments company Clear Channel in 2002 and are now planning to start refurbishing the vessel, which had been severely damaged by vandals at its previous moorings in the Netherlands.

The Super Station say the ship is to play a crucial part in their plans to create a new genre of radio station in 2004.

Managing director Dave Miller said: "I am passionate about the Communicator and about my vision for radio in the 21st century.

"I can't reveal any more details about the project at this stage, but can say that what we want to do with the ship is going to be innovative, exciting and fresh."

Security is currently in place at Lowestoft and The Super Station hope to arrange open days on the ship later this month

If you are interested in visiting The MV Communicator in the future visit www.mvcommunicator.com