Sign up as a Castle volunteer

 

Recently voted the best place to walk among The National Trust’s properties, Powis Castle annually recruits an army of volunteers who welcome thousands of tourists from across the world to Welshpool.

 

It has become a vital marketing tool for the area and pumps well needed funds into local businesses which provide jobs for local people. Now YOU can play your part.

 

Volunteer Recruitment Days are being held at Powis Castle on Tuesday, February 28 and Saturday, March 10 at 11am and these will open up a whole new world of opportunity.

 

“Whatever your interests or skills, Powis Castle and Garden would love to hear from you,” said the Castle’s Assistant Visitor Services Manager, Alison Dyer. “For the first time ever, Powis Castle & Garden will be open every day except Christmas Day in 2012 and from March 1, we want to open up more rooms for the public to see, so as a result we need lots more volunteers, especially room guides.”

 

But it‘s not just room guides, the Castle needs help across the board- from selling raffle tickets, to driving the mobility vehicle, helping in the office, shops, restaurant, garden and also with school groups. For the brave souls, volunteers are also needed dress in costume and provide a friendly welcome to visitors.

 

“There are lots of reasons to get involved. We are looking for people of all ages and need help on week days and at weekends; people who have spare time and enjoy meeting people from all over the world. But it’s also good for those in college who need work experience, those looking to enhance their CV before university, and those who need more work experience before going for jobs too. It’s not all about the work you do however, there’s a social side too. In 2011, our volunteers enjoyed trips to Shugborough Hall and Chatsworth as well as an exclusive evening picnic in our formal garden,” added Alison.

 

“There are roles to suit everyone. We're just looking for people who are friendly, welcoming and feel comfortable talking to visitors, and who have an interest in the Trust or its work. Volunteers can do as little or as much as they want. We have roles to suit everybody.”

 

For a commitment of just one day per week or fortnight, the Trust pays local travel expenses and volunteers receive reductions in the shop and restaurant as well as vouchers for free entrance to Trust properties nationwide.

 

“Our volunteers help look after Powis and we look after our volunteers. We literally couldn’t do it without them!” said Alison.

 

So why not give it a go? For more information, contact Alison Dyer on 01938 551929 or alison.dyer@nationaltrust.org.uk