A WEYMOUTH charity is nearing its fundraising target for a massive investment – a new boat.

M.V. Freedom, a charity that provides trips to sea for people with people living with disability, has been saving money for a new boat for the last eight years.

The boat currently operated by the charity is getting old, so M.V. Freedom are looking to take on a replacement boat to secure the charity’s future.

Dirk Aldous, a skipper for the charity, said: “We now have a substantial sum towards the final cost of the boat, but our fundraising efforts are being intensified in order to reach our target figure of £300K that will allow us to purchase a new boat and most importantly enhance the experience and long term benefits for our passengers, which include children, young people, the elderly and military veterans.”

The charity has held numerous fundraising events over the last few years to save money for the new boat.

Once such event was a quiz night at Weymouth Golf Club in March, which raised £1072.61.

Upcoming events for the rest of 2019 include a summer fete and a beer fest.

Mr Aldous commented on how well the project is being supported by the local community.

“With the support of businesses, residents, holiday makers and establishments, everybody seems to be supporting the boat.”

M.V. Freedom, which has been a registered charity since 1984, offers boat rides for the elderly, children, people with disabilities and those who care for them.

During the 2018 season, the charity carried over 1500 passengers, many of whom were wheelchair users.

The trips cover the Dorset Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and the Portland Harbour area.

They are also hosting trips for military veterans through the organisation The Veterans Hub, which offers to help veterans through tough times.

The skippers and crew for the boat are all volunteers, and the charity is currently seeking more skippers.

Bookings for M.V. Freedom can be arranged on 07974 266867.

Further information, including the diary for upcoming fundraising events, can be found at www.mvfreedom.co.uk.