VOLUNTEERS are needed to help make a biennial arts festival on Portland a success.

B-side Festival is back for its fourth year from September 5 to 14 and a host of national and international artists have produced work in response to the intriguing isle.

Visitors to Portland can expect an eclectic mix of visual art, text, sound, installation, live art and performance. Artists have explored the island’s heritage, cultural history and local taboos as well as its special ecology and geology to bring you their unique interpretation of place.

Work will be found on footpaths, in a living room, a library, a cafe, within a prison wall, at bus stops, in a church and more traditionally, in a gallery and theatre.

But the festival needs volunteers to help b-side reach its full potential.

They are now being recruited to steward all the festival’s installations and events, which are all situated at incredible locations around the island, including in The Verne Prison.

Roles range from working directly with artists assisting with installation, invigilating artworks, leading volunteer teams or stewarding to meeting and greeting visitors.

Volunteering for b-side is a positive addition to a CV, especially for people who have an interest in events production or arts management, and will offer some memorable moments.

Volunteer co-ordinator Sandy Hatcher said: “We can contribute £5 per shift towards travel and food expenses and most shifts last four hours or less.

“Plus, we will try to fulfil any preferences for being matched with a certain artist, location or friend when we finalise the rota.

“All volunteers must be over 18 and there will be a training and orientation day to be confirmed in August.

“Young people aged 18 to 25 on a low income may be able to earn £15 per shift while gaining valuable experience of working within the arts, tourism and the community.

“This will not affect any benefits received.

“We need fewer than 40 volunteers a day from Friday to Sunday, September 5 to 14, so get involved, tell your friends and apply.”

Volunteers are also needed for afternoons, evenings and weekends in August to help clear and decorate one of the festival’s installation venues in Fortuneswell.

The owner of the building suffered a spinal injury and is letting b-side use his home for free, so people who can lift, clean and paint are required. Email volunteers@b-side.org.uk