VOLUNTEERS are being sought by the Charles Dickens (Malton) Society to help man the town’s Counting House.

The museum is open on Saturdays, from 10am to 1pm, and houses photographs and memorabilia.

John Collins, from the society, said Malton had long prized its association with Charles Dickens – with streets named after David Copperfield, Mr Pickwick and Smithson Court, named after his local friend.

“Following the recent very positive article about Malton in The Times, which described the Counting House Museum as ‘very browsable’, the Charles Dickens (Malton) Society is looking forward to seeing even more visitors – and keen to find more volunteers willing to give one or two hours once or twice a month, to help greet the,” he said.

“There’s no requirement for detailed knowledge of the great man’s novels, the aim is simply to give visitors a flavour of his connections with Malton.

Mr Collins said there were many displays of pictures, offering full explanations for people to read.

“All you need is knowledge of the outlines of the Dickens/Malton connection and the ability to welcome visitors with a smile. If you’re willing to go to the Market Place to hand out leaflets, so much the better,” he said.

“It’s enjoyable work and you’ll get to meet folk from all parts of Britain, and occasionally from overseas.”

For more information, call at the Counting House on a Saturday or phone the society secretary, Linda McCarthy on 01653 698701.