THE award-winning Castletown D-Day Centre on Portland has battled against the odds to establish itself as a must see-attraction - but is on the lookout for more volunteers to continue its success.

The not-for-profit Community Interest Company relies on volunteers, income from entry tickets and community goodwill, to continue delivering experiences for its thousands of visitors.

The venue was launched in 2017 and brings to life the important role that the Port of Portland played in the D-Day landings, while paying tribute to the incredible sacrifice of thousands of US, British and Allied troops whom left for the occupied beaches of France on 6 June 1944.

Now in its fourth year of operation, the D-Day Centre enjoys a sweep of top reviews on Facebook, Google and Trip Advisor, where it has also picked-up a prestigious Travellers’ Choice Award.

But it has faced a challenging time during Covid and does not enjoy the luxury of being part of a national chain.

Manager John Davies said: "Castletown D-Day Centre has grown to be an amazing success story for the area and I would like to thank everyone involved for their incredible dedication and hard work.

"The online reviews alone are a testament to just how highly valued the D-Day Centre is to those who visit, and we rely on the support of the local community and volunteers to carry-on that incredible work and keep the story alive.

"As well as delivering essential educational experiences, the D-Day Centre is fast establishing itself in the heart of the community as a key element of Castletown Regeneration Project."

The D-Day Centre attracts people into the area, including visits from schools and groups, and supports armed service, veteran and remembrance events in Weymouth and Portland.

It has also proved popular with cruise ship passengers, many of them American, whom disembarked from vessels docked at Portland Port before the Covid pandemic struck.

It has featured on national television, such as the History and Yesterday Channels, shining a light on the area and the incredible role it played during World War Two.

Visitors encounter a wartime harbour scene where men and equipment are being loaded onto a landing ship moored alongside the dock, making ready for its imminent departure for the occupied beaches of Normandy.

The D-Day Centre includes an impressive array of authentic World War 2 artefacts and vehicles, including a full-size replica Spitfire, a Bofors 40mm gun and even a restored Sherman tank, plus interactive audio-visual displays, tank tours and a D-Day bunker.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Manager John Davies on 07400 287550 or email jdjaydavies37@gmail.com