Dedicated volunteers from National Trust for Scotland’s Thomas Carlyle Birthplace in Ecclefechan are getting involved in the silver anniversary celebrations of Volunteers’ Week on Friday 5 June.
Dedicated volunteers from National Trust for Scotland’s Thomas Carlyle Birthplace in Ecclefechan are getting involved in the silver anniversary celebrations of Volunteers’ Week on Friday 5 June.
Violet Dalton, the National Trust for Scotland’s Head of Volunteering will be dropping in at the property to say thank you to the enthusiastic and energetic volunteers who make such an important contribution at the home where the 18th century author was born and spent his early years.
Property Manager Dan Watson said:
“Carlyle's Birthplace has been open to the public since 1881, soon after the death of Thomas Carlyle. It came into the possession of the National Trust for Scotland in 1936. We still hold all the past copies of visitor books, so the modern day visitor can see who was in their position exactly one hundred years ago. Hopefully, one hundred years from now, the same will apply.
“Along with many Trust properties, we rely on volunteers to keep these unique places open for people to enjoy. Our small volunteer team does a great job, meeting visitors and helping them to understand the importance of what they see around them in this small museum. We always need a flow of new volunteers to do this, so if you think you might be able to help, or would like more information, please get in touch.”
Volunteers will also learn more about the charity’s new Volunteer of the Year award. Launched on 1 June 2009, staff and volunteers will be asked to nominate volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to the Trust. The winners will be announced in September at a volunteer event in the charity’s offices in Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Head of Volunteering, Violet Dalton said:
“Volunteers are vital to the National Trust for Scotland. We are so grateful for the time, expertise and dedication that every volunteer brings to our charity. Every individual makes such a difference in protecting and preserving Scotland’s heritage for future generations.
“Just look at the team here at Thomas Carlyle’s Birthplace – they really bring the story of this wonderful place to life for our visitors and make the experience of visiting here all the richer. There are thousands of other volunteers doing the same all over Scotland.
“I would absolutely encourage everyone to try their hand at volunteering for the Trust. You will spend time in some of the most beautiful places in Scotland, get to know some really interesting people and contribute to preserving our heritage for our children’s children.”
Anyone interested in volunteering at Thomas Carlyle’s Birthplace should contact Dan Watson on 01683 222714 or
dwatson@nts.org.uk.