NELSON needs a model maker to create its very own HMS Victory.

Martyn Leigh, of Moor Street, Nelson, has collected a 100-piece model of Admiral Nelson's flagship, but has not got the time to put it together before the Trafalgar Day celebrations.

Now he has donated the ship, worth £600, to the Trafalgar Day committee, which is appealing for a model maker to step forward and take up the challenge.

Mr Leigh, 46, said: "I'm halfway through building the Titanic and I saw the article in The Citizen about what they had planned for Trafalgar Day.

"I've bought a piece a week for this model of HMS Victory, but I'm not going to be able to build it in time.

"It would take at least a month or two to put it together. Whoever does it will have to be a good model maker. The sail cloths and everything will have to be put together and you'll need a steady hand to paint it all.

"My grandfather was born on Trafalgar Day and he used to tell me tales about Nelson.

"I started collecting this Victory out of respect for him, and I thought if it could be made for the celebrations that would be a tribute to him and the people of Nelson."

A market, lantern procession, and spectacular firework display, are planned for Nelson's Trafalgar Day celebrations on October 22.

Organisers hope the finished HMS Victory will be put on display in the town as a permanent memento of the event.

Committee chairman Donna Caley said: "It was a lovely thought by Mr Leigh to give it to us.

"And it would be fantastic if we can get someone to build it for us."

If anyone can build the wooden model HMS Victory, contact Donna on 07901 798963.