VOLUNTEERS are urgently required to help the Tall Ship Pelican deliver this summer’s packed sailing programme.

Help is needed both on land and at sea to assist the registered sail training charity – including tour guides, catering staff, engineers, carpenters, crew and administrative support.

Volunteers will benefit from training and support.

Ben Swain, second mate on the Pelican, said: “The ship specialises in long haul and shorter voyages, enabling individuals to develop their talents and realise their aspirations in a challenging environment of excitement and teamwork.

“We depend on our volunteers to help not only sail the ship but to also offer support for the many tasks which are necessary to keep us afloat.

“The Pelican is a registered charity so we depend on our loyal volunteers for help and support.”

On Thursday TS Pelican will be open to anybody who is interested in volunteering.

The ship will be berthed by Weymouth Pavilion and will be open from 2pm until 7pm, when volunteers can take their time to meet the crew and discuss the opportunities available this summer.

The sailing programme includes a variety of day sails which start on May 12.

There are four-day channel voyages in May and June and the Tall Ships Races in July and August.

A traditional square-rigger, TS Pelican aims to provide challenging, adventurous voyages, and setting 11 sails as a ‘mainmast barquentine’, the ship is lively and fast both on and off the wind.

Last month the TS Pelican opened its doors as part of the Best of Dorset Tourism event at the Pavilion Theatre.

Volunteer tour guide Ken Warren showed around 150 people around the ship in just one day.

To find out about getting involved call the Pelican office on 01305 839476, visit adventureundersail.com or send an email to enquiries@adventureundersail.com