VOLUNTEERS are still needed to help with the Poole Maritime Festival - which starts in just over a week. (MAY 15)

Tens of thousands of people are expected to visit a number of events during the festival, which was organised after the Borough of Poole (BOP) won the rights to host the European Maritime Day (EMD) initiative.

However, this prestigious EMD two-day conference which will bring together maritime experts at the Lighthouse Theatre is just one aspect of the wider festival.

Poole Mayor Cllr Xena Dion said: "As Poole Maritime Festival fast approaches we are all getting so excited.

"Everyone has pulled out all the stops to put on a maritime festival in Poole like never seen before.

"So don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this exciting long weekend of activities.

"You won’t regret it and I’m sure you will proudly remember this for many years to come."

The Poole Maritime Festival, running May 15-21, also includes the Poole Harbour Boat Show; the Seven Seas Festival at Baiter Park; the Taste of the South Food Festival at Poole Park, and a number of other performances and exhibitions.

A BOP spokesman explained: "There are various opportunities available for local people and groups to play their part in one of the biggest maritime celebrations in Poole in recent years.

"Talented and enthusiastic people are needed to support the Poole Maritime Festival team in delivering this high profile event.

"This is a great opportunity, whether you want to learn new skills, be active in the community, make new friends or you are just proud of Poole. You can sign up to be a general volunteer or a volunteer manager."

Volunteers are needed on Friday, May 19, from 12-4pm and 4-8pm; Saturday, May 20, from 9am-12pm, 12-4pm and 4-6pm; Sunday, May 21, from 9am-12pm, 12-4pm and 4-6pm.

Volunteers are also needed at two of the newly-created events in Poole, the Seven Seas Festival and the Taste of the South Festival.

Visit poolemaritimefestival.co.uk/volunteer for details on general volunteering.

Contact enquiries@immenseevents.net for the Seven Seas Festival, and info@tastesouth.co.uk for Taste of the South.