Great Yarmouth's port chaplain has launched a plea to help bring some festive cheer to the stranded crew of an offshore supply vessel this Christmas.

The Malaviya Twenty, an Indian-owned vessel, has been detained in Great Yarmouth since July, having arrived in June, meaning its 12-strong crew are unable to return home to India in time for the festive season.

Now, Revd Peter Paine, Great Yarmouth port chaplain and the Great Yarmouth Seafarers are hoping people can offer some kind of support.

He is collecting gifts, toiletries and supplies for the all-male crew, who are still living on board the vessel.

Revd Paine said: 'They have been a good crew, but motivation has fallen and their morale is low. It is terrible for them.

'They do not celebrate Christmas in the same way that we do, but we just want to do something to try and cheer them up.

'I think if people can help it would have a tremendous impact on these people.'

Revd Paine said the following items would be welcomed:

• Flannels, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, small towels, antiperspirant, shower gel, small packets of tissues, and any other male toiletries • Christmas cards - just to let them know someone is thinking of them

• Chocolate, and anything else you may think would be useful to them

•You may even send a donation for us to go shopping for them

The port chaplain is planning to deliver any donations to the crew on Christmas Day.

To offer your support, contact Revd Paine on 07788111823, or take donations to the Seafarers' Centre on South Quay.