The last paddle steamer built in Britain, Maid of the Loch, is looking for volunteers to throw her a lifeline as she gets set to sail around Loch Lomond once again.

A host of opportunities are available as part of the volunteering team, including tour guides, shop assistants, and events and promotional staff. Full training will be provided, and all will help protect and care for the historic attraction as it prepares to return to a fully functional steamship.

The call comes as the ship enters the final stages of a 20+ year fundraising campaign, meaning 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.

With an expected footfall of up to 95,000 visitors each year once operational, the volunteering roles will see those involved enjoy the most scenic of locations, whilst sharing their own personal stories and heritage with sightseers from all around the world.

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. 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.”

The Maid is currently moored at Balloch Pier as a static tourist attraction and was taken on by a group of dedicated volunteers from charity Loch Lomond Steamship Company in 1996. They have since been working tirelessly to transform and restore the ship.

Through a number of fundraising efforts over the past 20+ years, they have almost reached their end goal of £5.5 million, in a bid to get the Maid back up and running again.

There are no barriers for those wishing to volunteer by way of skills as all necessary training will be provided.

However, all volunteers must be aged 18 and over.

To register your interest and be part of the Maid sailing again, call 01389 711 865 or email the team at mail@maidoftheloch.org.