The Maritime Volunteer Service will welcome members of the public to a special open day at Newcastle Quayside on Saturday 6 June between 10am and 1pm.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet volunteers from the MVS Northumbria Unit and learn more about the organisation’s work in the region from Berwick to Teesside. Based in St Peter’s Marina, Newcastle the unit carries out regular patrols on the Tyne.
The unit’s two vessels will be moored alongside the NE1 Newcastle City Marina during the event, giving people the chance to step aboard and speak to crew members about their activities and training.
The open day will also include the opportunity to experience a rigid inflatable boat ride beneath the iconic Tyne Bridge, offering a unique view of the river and the city’s waterfront.
In recent years the Northumbria Unit has actively supported major maritime events including the Tall Ships celebrations in Blyth, Sunderland and Hartlepool. Volunteers also regularly provide crew for safety boat operations at Kielder Reservoir. The unit also organises the annual Remembrance Day Parade of Sail at Newcastle Quayside.
Head of the Northumbria Unit, David Bourn, said: “This is a great opportunity to meet the team and see what we do on the river.
“We are particularly keen to hear from people in the 18 to 25 age group. Volunteering with the MVS is a fantastic way for young adults to gain practical experience, learn new skills, build confidence and enhance their CVs while being part of a supportive team environment.
“There are opportunities to develop skills in areas such as seamanship, radio communications, event support and leadership, all of which can help people as they move into employment or further education.”
The unit is currently looking to recruit new volunteers, anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to get involved.
The Maritime Volunteer Service provides training and opportunities in seamanship, communications, engineering and community support, while promoting safety and skills on the water.