THIS year promises a busy and exciting time in the history of Castle Drogo once its huge 5ft-wide front door opens to visitors on March 9 — and now there's a chance to play a part.

Since receiving funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Interreg, a European grant, work has started on a five-year major building project to save the castle from an army of wind and rain.

It is to stay open for the entire project and more volunteers than ever are needed to make this happen. If you are interested in getting involved, the team at Drogo will be keen to hear from you.There are many opportunities for volunteers – from room guiding and conservation cleaning to car parking, managing the estate and running the scaffold viewing tower.

On Saturday, February 9 and Tuesday, February 12 from 11am to 3pm, there will be a volunteering open day at Castle Drogo. If you would like to meet the team and find out more about the different ways to get involved, you will be welcome to come along to the café and have a cuppa and a chat.

As a charity, the National Trust is dependent on the help of its volunteers. It would not be possible to open Castle Drogo without the many people who generously give their time.

Pauline Fletcher, who has been a volunteer at Castle Drogo for 24 years, says: 'The world has changed in the 24 years that I have been volunteering at Drogo, but the castle is as fascinating as ever.

'It is a joy to bring this wonderful house to life for all of our visitors, especially children who are in awe at the size of the building, the splendour of the rooms and the beauty of the surroundings.'

Volunteers do not need to have any prior knowledge of the property as all necessary information, training and full support is provided. Volunteers also have their travelling expenses reimbursed and have the opportunity to go out for trips and meals.

To find out more on volunteering at Castle Drogo, contact Rebecca Glover, visitor services officer, on 01647 434114 or email [email protected]">[email protected]