A PROJECT which offers sensory experiences for disabled people on the open water is appealing for sponsors.

The MV Freedom, which offers sailing and fishing trips for disabled people from Weymouth Harbour, is run entirely by volunteers and is a registered charity.

Chairman Jenie Jackson said: “We do not charge for trips, although most people give us a donation.

“Whenever we take people out we always say we get paid in smiles because it’s lovely seeing their faces when they get out on the open water.”

But the boat, which can carry up to 12 passengers for pleasure and fishing excursions, needs upgrading.

Mrs Jackson said: “We’ve been running excursions for almost 30 years, so we’re looking at making changes to improve the experience.

“We’re very grateful for donations but they do not cover the full running costs.”

She added that upgrades could include an undercover area on the boat and wheelchair-friendly toilet facilities.

The project receives donations from individual fundraisers and a regular calendar of events including a barrel-rolling competition across Dartmoor.

But the charity says the boat costs upwards of £14,000 every year to run, covering fuel, insurance, licences and general maintenance, and organisers are looking for a regular source of income.

Skipper Patrick Dowding-Vesey said that while Freedom is still in good condition, a new boat is needed.

He said: “She must be about 20 or 30 years old now.

“Luckily she has been well looked after because we just don’t have the funds for a new boat at the moment.

“We had some modifications made over the winter and we are still collecting for a new vessel. But in this economic climate, it could take a while.”

He added that it is thanks to the people of Weymouth that Freedom can regularly take disabled people from around 30 different care homes, day centres and schools out on the water to experience the sea.

“We have terrific financial support from various public houses and there must be about 20 people who are directly involved as volunteers, including skippers, crew and trustees.

“But it’s a very worthwhile cause.”

Anyone who wishes to offer sponsorship or take part in fundraising for the charity can contact Mrs Jackson on 07974266867.