A team of volunteers who help run a popular stately home have been recognised for their dedication.
Affectionately known as the ‘fifth family,’ volunteers have been involved in the running of Kiplin Hall and Gardens near Richmond for the last 20-years.
Today Kiplin is run as a visitor attraction by an independent charity but has been owned by four families all related through blood or marriage over the last four centuries.
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A team of over 160 people work tirelessly in all areas of the organisation; welcoming visitors, conducting historic research, room stewarding, manning the gift shop, gardening, and much more.
At a recent annual celebration event, long-serving volunteers were awarded badges for five, ten, 15, and even 20 years service - the latter of which were awarded to four volunteers.
And for anyone new who wants to join the team, Kiplin Hall is hosting a summer recruitment event on Thursday, July 21 with drop-in sessions from 11am to 1pm.
Rosie Kluz, volunteers and front of house mManager, will be at the event and said: “The event is really a great chance to come along and find out more about what volunteering at Kiplin is like.
"It’s very informal, a cuppa and a chat with me and some of our current volunteers.
"This year we are keen to meet people who would be interested in roles as room stewards, talking to visitors about the history of Kiplin and the families who lived here.
"And 'welcome volunteers', who man our entry point, welcoming visitors, checking tickets, offering information about what visitors can enjoy on that day."
Rosie said new volunteers are given lots of training and shadowing while they settle into their new roles.
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Some people like to claim a slot on the rota, doing a regular day and time, while others are happier to pop in and out on an ad-hoc basis.
Rosie said: "There’s no pressure to over commit yourself, we are very flexible to individual needs.
"As a team we also offer benefits including a discount in the tea room, group outings, celebration events, and exhibition previews.
"Many volunteers enjoy the social aspect of volunteering most of all, something we’ve all missed during the pandemic.”
Those wanting to attend the drop in day should email fohmanager@kiplinhall.co.uk or call 01748-818178 beforehand.
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