VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help a Sunderland beach look its best when it welcomes visitors from around the world.
In just a handful of weeks around 1.5m people are expected to head to Sunderland for The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018.
And, in order to ensure the seafront is ready for the occasion, Sunderland City Council has joined forces with 103.4 Sun FM for a pirate themed, Swab the Decks clean-up of Roker Beach.
They are calling on helpers of all ages to head to the beach on 1 June and, in return for their hard work, there will be the chance to win prizes and take part in a message in a bottle scavenger hunt.
The clean-up is part of a raft of preparations for The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018 – a four-day festival of entertainment, from 11- 14 July across four event zones on the banks of the River Wear.
Along with the chance to see 55 sailing vessels from countries as far afield as India and Holland, visitors will be treated to a world-class line up of theatre, circus, music and dance.
“So, we really need to show the city – and the seafront – at its very best,” said Cllr John Kelly, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Culture at Sunderland City Council said.
“I very much hope as many people as possible will come along to Swab the Decks at Roker beach on 1 June to give us a helping hand and have a great time, with lots of fun and games.”
The Swab the Decks event will take place from 10am to 1pm and all cleaning materials will be provided.
To find out more – or to sign up for the event – visit https://www.sun-fm.com/win/swab-the-decks.php.
For more information about The Tall Ships Races Sunderland 2018, visit www.tallshipssunderland.com follow on Twitter @TallShipsSund or Facebook at: Tall Ships Races Sunderland.