DIVERSE Abilities has launched a new fundraising event for the summer: a fireworks cruise around Poole Bay later this month.

Setting sail at 7pm, the ship cruises through Europe’s largest natural harbour with panoramic views of Brownsea Island, Sandbanks Peninsula, and Studland Bay, returning to Poole Quay in time for the evening’s firework display.

Events manager at Diverse Abilities Karen Hay said: “It’s great to be able to host fundraising events again, we all know why it’s been so difficult to over the past 18 months.

“We’ve found the support of our community throughout the pandemic so encouraging and we would love to celebrate that with everyone as part of this fireworks cruise.

“It’s sure to be a fantastic night, so bring your friends along for a night on the seas of Poole Harbour.”

Tickets for the three-hour cruise aboard the Purbeck Princess cost £25 per person and include a glass of prosecco on arrival.

The evening will also include a raffle to win a luxury summer picnic hamper, as well as a chance to win two tickets to the charity’s Gala Ball in November.

Money raised from the night will go directly towards the children and adults with physical and learning disabilities supported by Diverse Abilities.

More than 1,000 people in Dorset rely on the charity’s range of vital services each year, through more than 200,000 hours of care, activity sessions, and advice.

Karen added: “Our staff have been inspirational throughout Covid-19, and we have been working on ensuring as many people as possible can return in a safe way, continuing to minimise the risk for the most vulnerable who have been shielding since last March.

“While some are still shielding, we’ve really enjoyed all the smiley faces of those who have come back so far.”

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/fireworks for further details and to book tickets or diverseabilities.org.uk to find out more about the charity itself and the services it provides.