A HISTORIC hall is seeking volunteers.

East Riddlesden Hall is recruiting people with a passion for history and heritage to welcome visitors to the 17th-century house.

The move comes as the National Trust property prepares for a new season, opening five days a week.

Around 38,000 visitors a year pass through its doors.

Volunteering and community officer, Emily Taylor, says: "House experience volunteers are a key part of our team at East Riddlesden Hall. They provide a warm and friendly welcome to visitors wanting to explore the house and find out more about the history of this fascinating place.

"We welcome volunteers from any background. No experience is required; we’re looking for people with the right personality who enjoy communicating with others. If you’re friendly, enthusiastic and enjoy meeting new people, this is a great role to start your volunteering journey with the National Trust.

"At East Riddlesden Hall you will be part of a knowledgeable and welcoming team, and will see the house from a new perspective. It's a perfect opportunity for anyone passionate about history and local heritage, and for those who enjoy speaking to people and working as part of a team. It is also a great role for anybody looking to gain experience in customer service, conservation or working within a charity. And we offer benefits such as help towards travel costs."

Tom Dixon started at the site as a volunteer in 2019.

He progressed into a paid role, and is now cook.

"I started volunteering in the tearoom – I was struggling to find work at the time and thought I could improve my CV by volunteering with the National Trust," says Tom, 27.

"In March 2020 I was offered a paid position in the tearoom and since then I have worked my way up from team member to cook.

"Volunteering not only helped me to improve my CV, but it started me on my career path. Making that first step onto the ladder, especially in an unpaid role, can be a difficult thing to do. But I knew I’d made the right decision quite soon after starting, as my skills and confidence grew.

"It shows how much the National Trust values its volunteers that I was offered a permanent role, and I know I’m not the first person who has made that transition."

For further information and to apply for a role, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/support-us/volunteer.