Maid of the Loch: Volunteers sought for new visitor season

The Maid team is looking for "friendly, helpful people who like to tell a great story" to help out at the tourist attraction in Balloch this year.

Volunteers are needed to lend a hand on Saturdays and Sundays from early April until the end of October.

A spokesperson for the Loch Lomond Steamship Company, the charity which is restoring the famous ship, said: "If you can spare at least two weekend days a month from 10.30am until 4pm, then this could be a great new interest for you.

"Volunteers must be aged 16 or over - with enthusiasm being the main qualification.

"The Loch Lomond Steamship Company will train you and to begin with you’ll be buddied with a more experienced Guide on weekend days.

"No wages are payable but you’ll get to meet a wide variety of people and help deliver an exciting programme of events over the season and most importantly you’ll be helping towards our goal of sailing the Maid again on Loch Lomond."

The Maid of the Loch's new visitor season starts on April 8 (Image: Freelancer)

If you're interested in playing a part in the Maid's story, email mail@maidoftheloch.org or call 01389 711865.

The Maid is currently undergoing restoration on the slipway next to Balloch Pier. 

The charity is aiming to use the ship's spell out of the water to repair its hull plating, refurbish its paddle wheels, and recoat the hull and funnel in the original white, green and buff colours worn by the Maid when she first sailed on the loch in 1953 - with the ultimate aim of returning the ship to full operation on the loch for the first time since 1981.

The 'Ship on the Slip' attraction opens to the public every weekend from April 8.

'Hard hat tours' of the vessel can be booked in advance on 07484 918659.

See www.maidoftheloch.org for full event details.

Donations towards the cost of the restoration work can also be made through a dedicated website - www.maidoftheloch.org/donate.