A GROUP of volunteers have been welcoming visitors to Weymouth as part of a new scheme.

Known collectively as ‘Weyfarers’, the group has been trained and appointed by the Weymouth Business Improvement District (BID).

The scheme is designed to replicate the success of the 2012 Olympic Ambassadors Programme, helping visitors with queries in the town centre and along the Esplanade.

A couple of ‘Weyfarers’ were put into action yesterday when they welcomed passengers coming off the German cruise ship Astor.

The ship, which stopped off at Portland Port for the day, had 586 people on board.

‘Weyfarers’ greeted the visitors at the shuttle bus drop-off point near Brewers Quay.

Weymouth BID manager Nigel Reed said Weyfarers will have additional duties to those of the Olympic Ambassadors.

He said: “I think we have had to widen it because obviously the ambassadors were focused on an event.

“The Weyfarers’ remit is to also speak to and be involved with the levy payers and the shop owners.

“They are a good contact with the shops and businesses in the town.”

Mr Reed said attractions in both Weymouth and Portland would be advertised.

He said: “It’s the area they are visiting and that’s Weymouth and Portland. The ‘Weyfarers’ have got information on Portland. They have got a map which shows Portland.”

Weyfarers will wear an orange uniform, incorporating the ‘Inspire 2012’ logo. The uniform has been designed by marketing company RLA and printed by local company Weyprint.

 

PCSO Clive Joyner, who patrols the Esplanade, welcomed the scheme’s implementation.

He said: “Weymouth is a traditional seaside sort of place with a nice beach next to the shops.

“With this group working up and down the Esplanade, I think it is really good for Weymouth and the local tourism industry. We look forward to working alongside them.”

Weymouth BID is keen to recruit a second group of Weyfarers later this summer. They’re looking for people able to give a minimum of eight hours or more over a four week cycle.

To find out more details about the role, please email info@weymouthbid.co.uk or call 01305 779410.