Buckland Abbey searching for volunteers

The National Trust are looking for new volunteers to help take care of Buckland Abbey in the Tavy Valley.

Once the home of Sir Francis Drake, in order to search for more volunteers, the charity will hold an open day on Friday, March 22.

The National Trust have said they are looking for volunteers to fulfil various roles which include welcoming visitors to the Abbey and bringing its many stories to life, buggy driving, running school tours and looking after the shop.

They are also looking for those with outdoor experience and interests to join their Buckland Ranger team.

The ranger team hopes for new starters to join the monthly volunteer group, who assist with a wide variety of estate work such as tree planting and reinstating hedgerows.

To help with the search, an open day will be offered for eager volunteers to go to the property and put themselves forward. 

Starting at 10.15am, the day will involve an introduction to volunteering from Buckland Abbey’s Volunteer and Community Officer, Wendy Mills-Hicks, followed by an opportunity to speak to current volunteers and a short tour of the Abbey and Barn.

Wendy Mills-Hicks, Volunteer & Community Officer for Buckland Abbey said: “Volunteers are essential to Buckland Abbey, we wouldn’t be able to look after this beautiful place without them. They do a wonderful job bringing the place to life for visitors and helping conserve this over 700-year-old site.”

National Trust volunteers are not required to commit to a minimum time, but consistent involvement, such as one shift per week, is recommended for the benefit of the roles. 

Shift lengths typically range from three to five hours, depending on the specific duties. 

All volunteers undergo an induction process and have the opportunity to shadow experienced volunteers to ensure they feel adequately prepared for their responsibilities.

For further information and to reserve a place at the open day, individuals can contact the National Trust at 01822 853607 or via email at bucklandabbeyvolunteering@nationaltrust.org.uk