A spokesman said: “If you are interested in the history of Poole Harbour sailing, natural history, maritime history from pre-Roman to the 20th century, liners and cruising, model making, islands, wildlife photography, yacht and boat design and more, then do join us to hear our talks and lectures.”

The HQ above the Canford Cliffs library houses over 6,000 photographs and other images and access to thousands more. There are also more than 2,800 books on boats and information on the local area.

There are also many models of sailing ships, paddle steamers, tugs, working boats and yachts of all sorts and over 300 box files of material on 19th and 20th century marine work, local boatyards and yacht clubs, now long gone.

People are invited to the HQ for a coffee or a cup of tea and a biscuit on Thursdays 10am -12.30pm.

The HQ entrance is on the free car park side of the library. Look over the fence at the back of the new conservatory and you will see a sign to the front door.

www.poolemaritimetrust.org