SHAKE off the winter gloom and put a spring back in your step; become a volunteer at Powis Castle. Find out more at our volunteer open day on Saturday, March 2, from 10am to 1pm.

If you’ve a warm smile, time to spare, and want to make a difference, why not join the volunteer team at Powis?

We have lots of roles to choose from, both indoors and outdoors, so join us on our open day to find out more.

Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, enhance your CV or meet new people, Powis Castle offers exiting volunteer opportunities for everyone.

From tour guides and events assistants to drivers and room guides; why not come along and see what inspires you?

Join us at 10am in the restaurant while we tell you a bit more about volunteer opportunities over a cup of tea or coffee. Then enjoy one of our garden and castle tours, chat with our friendly staff and volunteers about different roles, and discover why they love being part of our team.

Outdoors and indoors, we have lots of roles to choose from. Booking via the Castle’s website is advisable but not essential.

Alison Dunne, volunteering and community involvement co-ordinator at Powis Castle, says: “We have an exciting new programme at Powis this year and lots of interesting opportunities to match.

"Whether it’s welcoming visitors to our outstanding gardens or helping with our extensive events programme, there’s something for everyone. "We’re always open to suggestions too, so if you have other skills to offer come along and have a chat.”

"Time commitment is flexible, so you can decide how much time you’d like to give. From once a week, to once a month or ad hoc, we’ll be happy to welcome you to the team. Training is provided for all roles and the National Trust reimburses the cost of travel expenses.

"Don’t forget the fun factor; as a volunteer you will be invited on trips and social gatherings.

"So what are you waiting for?"

To book a space please phone 01938 551 929 or email alison.dunne@nationaltrust.org.uk

Powis Facts:

• Powis Castle began life as the medieval fortress of the Welsh princes of Powys, who held onto their kingdom despite the threats of their more powerful neighbours in Gwynedd and England.

• In 1587, Powis was sold to Sir Edward Herbert who created the romantic long gallery which is richly decorated with the coats of arms of his ancestors.

• The first Marquess of Powis was forced into exile in 1668 due to his loyalty to the deposed King James II.

• In 1784, the marriage of Lady Henrietta Herbert and Edward Clive, son of Robert Clive, the conqueror of India, combined the Powis and Clive estates.

• In the early 20th Century, the 4th Earl of Powis and his wife, Lady Violet, redecorated much of the castle and brought the garden back to life, introducing new varieties from all over the world.

About the National Trust:

The National Trust is a conservation charity founded in 1895 by three people who saw the importance of our nation’s heritage and open spaces, and wanted to preserve them for everyone to enjoy. More than 120 years later, these values are still at the heart of everything the charity does.

Entirely independent of Government, the National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 778 miles of coastline and hundreds of special places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

More than 24 million people visit every year, and together with 5 million members and over 65,000 volunteers, they help to support the charity in its work to care for special places for ever, for everyone. For more information and ideas for great seasonal days out go to: www.nationaltrust.org.uk