Volunteers needed to defend Castle Drogo

Castle Drogo is holding a volunteer open day on Saturday 6 February from 11am until 3pm for anyone who would like to find out more about getting involved.

This is the most exciting time in the history of Castle Drogo since its initial construction. After receiving funding in 2012 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Interreg, a European grant, the building project is now over half way. More volunteers than ever are needed to share the exciting interpretation that has been created.

Laurence Harvey, Volunteer Coordinator, says: “There are lots of opportunities at Castle Drogo, from welcoming visitors and room guiding to managing the estate and running the scaffold viewing tower.  If you would like to meet the team and find out a bit more, please pop along to the Castle 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 volunteers who generously give their time.  If you would like to do something that is interesting, enjoyable and rewarding, why not consider getting involved as a volunteer? You can 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 27 years, says, “The world has changed in the 27 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.”

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.