Call for German speaking tour guides in Jersey

Jersey Tourism wants German speaking guides to show visitors around this island's attractions

Jersey Tourism is looking for German-speaking islanders to become tour guides this summer.

Jersey Tourism said the island had seen a 23% increase in the number of German visitors in 2011.

A local tour operator has offered to pay for guides to do a tourist guide course at Highlands College.

David de Carteret, director of tourism, said: "We had 13,000 German visitors last year and... we are expecting that number to rise."

Karine David, general manager of tour operator Bontour, said: "Most German visitors come as part of an organised tour and already we have had more requests for German-speaking guides.

"Our guides escort groups for either half a day or a full day around the island, introducing them to the history and culture of Jersey.

"We are looking for people who speak German, are confident with people, have good customer service skills and are able to take charge of a group.

"Guides act on a freelance basis so the work can be built around other commitments; many tours take place at weekends and guides can expect to earn up to £130 for a full day's guiding service.