AN APPEAL has been made for more volunteers to help tell the story of Nunnington Hall.

The National Trust, which maintains the stately home, is looking for people to help as room guides.

Two open days are being held on Thursday, March 10 and Saturday, March 12, to help anyone interesting in volunteering get a better idea of the opportunities available.

A friendly and knowledgeable team of volunteers will be sharing their experiences, and offering the chance to enjoy a tour of the house to find out what it's like to volunteer at this special place.

The volunteer room guides at Nunnington Hall play a key role in engaging visitors with the stories of the house and help to make a memorable contribution to their visit. The original Tudor hall sits on the bank of the River Rye, and is today presented as it would have been during the 1920’s, while occupied by Fife family. Each of the ten remaining historic rooms explores over 400 years of the hall’s history and is brought to life by the enthusiasm of the volunteers.

As well as volunteering there are also opportunities for people to explore own specific interests and fully immerse themselves in the history of the property by joining some of the current clubs including; the research group and the conservation team.

Current room guide volunteer, Ken Wilson, said: “I’ve now been a volunteer at Nunnington Hall for ten years. But my enthusiasm for discovering more about the house and its stories has never withered.

"Each time I arrive at the hall, I stare at this beautiful and enchanting old house and look forward to meeting that day’s visitors. I’ve always enjoyed chatting with new people, to share my knowledge of the house and family, but I particularly love to hear about their favourite bits and memories from previous visits.”

Laura Kennedy, Visitor Experience Manager for Nunnington Hall, said: “It's the time and passion of our volunteers that makes Nunnington extra special. Volunteering for the National Trust is a fantastic way to make new friends, be a part of the local community and expand your interest in history. Many of our volunteers have been coming to Nunnington for a long time, some as many as twenty five years. Working each day with volunteers really is wonderful, and I’ve since made so many friends. All of our new volunteers are provided with regular training; all that people need is passion and enthusiasm to share their interests with others.”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can book a place on one of the timed volunteer house tours on Thursday, March 10, by phoning 01439 748283 or emailing Laura.Kennedy@nationaltrust.org.uk. People can also simply drop by on Saturday,March 12, to chat with volunteers and join one of the short tours running throughout the day.

Nunnington Hall is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am – 5pm and Mondays in school holidays. For more information about visiting Nunnington Hall, tel: 01439 748283 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nunningtonhall