DESPITE another wet summer and the anxiety caused by the credit crunch, 2009 was a bumper year for the National Trust at Castle Drogo.

The property welcomed more than 123,000 visitors through its doors last year and confidence is high that 2010 will be even bigger and better.

To help welcome all these visitors, the trust is looking for new volunteers. For anyone who wants to find out more about volunteering, Castle Drogo will be holding an open day today (Thursday) from 11am to 3pm.

Applicants do not need to have a degree in history or know all the Latin names for the plants in the garden. All that is wanted is a warm smile and a welcoming personality.

Volunteers will get a welcome pack with all necessary information, and support and training are provided throughout. They also have their travelling expenses reimbursed and have the opportunity to go out for trips and meals.

There are many varied opportunities for volunteers across the site. They can help care for the house, support the varied events programme or provide customer service at visitor reception. The enterprise team is also looking for volunteers this year to help in the busy shop and café. They can even join the Living History volunteers and be a servant from 1928.

Drogo is particularly looking for volunteers to act as room guides or garden stewards this season, especially on Tuesdays and at weekends, providing a warm welcome to the thousands of people who come to the property each year, ensuring they enjoy their visit.

As a charity, the National Trust is greatly dependent on the help of its volunteers. There is likely to be a role for anyone, whatever their interests, in helping to ensure this remarkable property remains the fabulous place for which it is renowned.

To find out more about volunteering at Castle Drogo, call Paula Clarke on 01647 434114 or email [email protected]">[email protected]