Volunteers needed to defend Devon's Castle Drogo

This year is the most exciting time in the history of Castle Drogo since its initial construction and promises to be a busy one once its huge five-foot-wide front door opens to visitors on 9th March.

Since receiving funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Interreg - a European grant - work has started on a five-year major building project to save this iconic place from the onslaught of an army of wind and rain.

The big news is that it is going to stay open for the entire project and more volunteers than ever are needed to make this happen. If you are interested in getting involved, the team at Drogo are keen to hear from you. There are loads of opportunities for volunteers – from room guiding and conservation cleaning to car parking, managing the estate and running the scaffold viewing tower.

On Saturday 9th and Tuesday 12th February 2013, 11am–3pm, there will be a volunteering open day at Castle Drogo. If you would like to meet the team and find out more about the different ways to get involved, please pop along to the Drogo café and have a cuppa and a chat. You don’t need a degree in history to volunteer – just a warm smile, enthusiasm and a few hours to spare.

As a charity, the National Trust is dependent on the help of its volunteers. It would not be possible to open Castle Drogo without the many people who generously give their time. If you would like to do something that is interesting, enjoyable and rewarding, why not consider getting involved? You will meet new people, learn new things, use your skills and, of course, have fun.

Pauline Fletcher, who has been a volunteer at Castle Drogo for 24 years, says: ‘The world has changed in the 24 years that I have been volunteering at Drogo, but the castle is as fascinating as ever. It is a joy to bring this wonderful house to life for all of our visitors, especially children who are in awe at the size of the building, the splendour of the rooms and the beauty of the surroundings.’

Whatever your interests or availability, there will be a volunteer role for you. So why not see another side of Drogo and spend your time in beautiful, grand surroundings, by joining the team and helping to ensure this remarkable property remains the fabulous place for which it is renowned.

Volunteers do not need to have any prior knowledge of the property as all necessary information, training and full support is provided. Volunteers also have their travelling expenses reimbursed and have the opportunity to go out for trips and meals.

To find out more about any of the volunteering opportunities at Castle Drogo, please contact Rebecca Glover, Visitor Services Officer, on 01647 434114 or email rebecca.glover@nationaltrust.org.uk.