Volunteers are needed to help welcome cruise passengers into Southampton and help them learn about the city's highlights.

GO! Southampton has launched its Welcome Volunteer Programme to boost the city's hospitality for summer visitors.

The new initiative, run by the city's Business Improvement District and backed by ABP Southampton, seeks volunteers to welcome cruise passengers and help them navigate the city's highlights.

GO! Southampton aims to elevate the travel experience by forming a team of volunteers equipped with local knowledge.

Volunteers will assist with disseminating information and guidance on the city's attractions and, if successful, may be extended and could offer more working hours to volunteers.

The volunteers will work on a rotational basis for a few hours a week at the Ocean Cruise Terminal, mainly catering to transit cruise passengers spending a day in the city.

GO! Southampton will provide training and necessary equipment once enough volunteers have signed up.

Executive Director of GO! Southampton, Stephen Manion said: "We understand that it can be challenging for those people coming off a ship for the day in Southampton to know where to go. We want to help by offering a fleet of volunteers who can provide an informative and friendly welcome to the city.

"We want to ensure that visitors see Southampton at its best. We want people to see our museums, galleries and the city’s rich history as well as our fantastic shops and eateries."

Fay Draper, Cruise Manager, ABP Ports said: "We are very excited for the volunteer scheme to get underway. As a port, we welcome transit guests throughout the year and know just how important it is for them to have a warm welcome as they disembark the ships and head into the city centre. The new volunteers will make a huge difference to the passenger's experience and local businesses within the city centre."

Stephen, a programme member, underscored the importance of enthusiasm in prospective volunteers. He said: "Your time and passion for Southampton are the most valuable contributions. This will also be a great opportunity for people to work with like-minded individuals."

To join, volunteers need to pledge three hours of commitment on agreed days. Details about the entertaining programme can be found on www.gosouthampton.co.uk/welcome-volunteer/.