A VOLUNTEER crew is being sought for the 'maiden' voyage of the refurbished Maid of the Loch.
The restored paddle steamer is scheduled to return to the waters of Loch Lomond next year after a decades-long effort to get her shipshape again.
And owners the Loch Lomond Steamship Company are looking for people to come aboard and give up their time to help keep the venture afloat.
READ MORE: £1m grant to help The Maid of the Loch set sail again
The Maid of the Loch was last paddle steamer built in Britain, and is currently moored at Balloch Pier as a static tourist attraction.
Around 95,000 visitors are expected to sail on the Maid each year when it returns to the Loch, and the company are looking for tour guides, shop assistants, events and promotional staff to help out.
It said those who sign up will have a unique opportunity to be part of British steamship history, as it sails on another ‘Maiden Voyage’ after 38 years out of commission.
READ MORE: Maid of the Loch has original builders plaque returned after 30 years
John Beveridge, Director of the Loch Lomond Steamship Company, said: “As the demand for Maid of the Loch continues to grow and with her anticipated return next year, we now need to look ahead and call upon those with a passion and desire of protecting something as special as the Maid to help us out.
“Volunteers are the backbone of this whole project, without whom the Maid would be consigned to the history books. It’s a truly unique opportunity for anyone looking to be a part of Scottish history to share their enthusiasm and commitment with us.
Mr Beveridge added: "I myself have been involved with the Maid for over 20 years as a volunteer and every day is extremely rewarding as we get her ready to sail once again.”
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