Job opens on UK's last coal-powered paddle steamer in Devon

Paul Merrington said it was an "exciting opportunity"

A "once in a lifetime job" to maintain the UK's last remaining coal-powered paddle steamer has been advertised.

Kingswear Castle paddle steamer operates on the River Dart, in Dartmouth, Devon, and has been in service for 100 years, said Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company.

Paul Merrington, engineering director, said responsibilities included raising steam and operating the engine.

He added it was an "exciting opportunity".

Anyone interested in the role needs to apply directly to the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company

Mr Merrington said: "She is the only remaining coal-fired paddle steamer operating in the UK.

"She is one of a kind and one of only a handful left in the world.

"The engine itself is 120 years old, so it would suit somebody who likes old machinery.

"Someone with traction engine experience could comfortably come into the engine room and understand some of what is going on."

'Wonderful job'

The firm described the role as a "once in a lifetime job".

Mr Merrington added: "Day-to-day, it involves raising steam, maintaining the boiler pressures, operating the engine after it has been lubricated at the start of the day and then actually driving the engine from the skipper's commands.

"It is a very small number which has had the opportunity to have this wonderful job."

He added the company was looking to get someone in the role "as soon as possible".