CASTLE Drogo is on the lookout for volunteers to get involved at the property during potentially the most exciting time in its history.

After receiving funding in 2012 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Interreg, a European grant, the restoration project to make the castle watertight is now in its last phase. More volunteers than ever are needed to share the exciting interpretation that has been created and become part of the Castle Drogo team.

In the last week, the National Trust property has held two volunteer open days to promote the variety of opportunities available.

Alice Coombs, volunteering officer said: ‘Castle Drogo is a really exciting place to be at the moment, we’ve got loads going on and some real opportunities to get stuck in. Our volunteers are such a skilled and friendly bunch, and of course we would love to welcome new people to the team. I started my National Trust journey as a volunteer and I can’t recommend the experience enough, it’s why I do what I do.’

There are lots of opportunities to get involved, from room guiding to buggy driving, garden guiding, research and running the scaffold viewing tower. Anyone who would like to meet the team and find out more about the different ways to get involved can pop along to the Castle Drogo visitor centre and staff will direct people to the community space for a cuppa and a chat.

There will also be a chance to go on a tour behind the scenes. 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 volunteers who generously give their time. 

Chris who has volunteered at the castle for 3 years said: ‘I was retired and after 50 years in industry I was bored. I missed people – missed being part of a team. And then along came the National Trust.

‘I quickly found myself climbing scaffold towers, running tours, developing new tour projects, training others. I was back at work again, and I loved it. I still do. No salary, but the rewards are priceless.’

There is a volunteer role for everyone, regardless of interest or availability. Volunteers do not need to have any prior knowledge of the property as all necessary information, training and 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 the property www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-drogo

• Photo by Robbie Forrester Wilson.