VOLUNTEERS are needed to welcome visitors to an historic castle where redevelopment plans are expected to transform it into a major tourist attraction.

More than 100 people have joined the Friends of Auckland Castle volunteer team at the Bishop Auckland venue since it opened six days a week on April 1.

Castle bosses are now appealing for more people to help as stewards, guides, reception and retail staff to cope with increased opening hours, an expected rise in visitors during summer and with plans to transform the site over the next five years.

Rebecca Coates, general manager at Auckland Castle, said volunteering offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of the former Bishop of Durham’s palace.

She said: “We’ve seen over 100 people of all ages offer up their services as volunteers, which is a real testament to how the community feels about the castle and the history of its heritage and we’re really grateful for this support.

“We’re calling for even more people with an enthusiasm for the castle and its history to commit whatever time they can spare to help us showcase this hidden gem and to be a part of our exciting growth plans over the coming months and years.”

Auckland Castle has received £1m from the Heritage Lottery Fund towards a development project which aims to attract up to 120,000 visitors in five years time. Auckland Castle is open Wednesday to Monday, 10.30am to 4pm, entry is £8 for adults, £6 for concessions, £4 for children and £20 for a family card.