Steamship Mutual has said it will extend the payment deadline for the first protection and indemnity instalment of the policy year to help cash-strapped shipowners affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

In a note to members, the London-based P&I club said it would extend the payment until 20 May.

Shipowner members who stayed with the club at the annual 20 February policy renewal have also been rewarded with a 7.5%