GREENFIELD Valley Trust is celebrating the volunteers who help keep one of Flintshire’s most popular heritage attractions running, while encouraging more people to play a role in shaping its future.
As part of National Volunteers’ Week, the Trust has been hosting a series of ‘Meet the Volunteers’ drop-in sessions, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the people behind the scenes at the historic 70-acre site near Holywell.
The initiative has highlighted the wide range of opportunities available, from heritage research, gardening and events to museum care, rail and steam, fishing, historic machinery and visitor support.
Greenfield Valley volunteers and staff have also been out in the community during the celebrations, attending the Holywell Half Term Spring Event and Market Relaunch in Tower Gardens and along the High Street.
Chair of Greenfield Valley Trust Ian Brebner said the week had shone a spotlight on the vital contribution volunteers make to both the organisation and the wider community.
“Volunteers are absolutely central to everything we do at Greenfield Valley,” he said.
“They help us preserve and share an important part of Flintshire’s heritage while creating a welcoming environment for thousands of visitors every year.
“National Volunteers’ Week has been a fantastic opportunity for people to come along, meet the team and discover just how varied and rewarding volunteering here can be.
“We are always keen to welcome new volunteers and trustees who can help us continue building for the future – they are the beating heart of the Valley.”
More than 50 volunteers currently support Greenfield Valley across a broad range of roles. Earlier this year, the Trust was awarded the prestigious Investing in Volunteers accreditation in recognition of its commitment to supporting and valuing its volunteer team.
Countryside Sites Team Leader Helen Mrowiec said many visitors had taken the opportunity to find out more about volunteering during the week’s activities.
“It has been wonderful to see so many people taking the time to speak to our staff and volunteers,” she said.
“For some, it has been about learning more about the Valley and the work that happens behind the scenes, while others are already exploring ways they can contribute themselves.
“There is still opportunity for people to come along during the remaining sessions this week, have an informal chat and see whether volunteering could be for them.”
Upcoming sessions include Heritage Research volunteers on Wednesday June 3 from 10am-10.30am, followed by Events and Activities volunteers from 2pm-2.30pm. On Thursday June 4, visitors can meet Heritage Garden and Community Garden volunteers from 10.30am-12pm, while Rail and Steam volunteers will host a session at the Lower Cotton Mill on Tuesday June 9 from 11.30am-12pm.
Alongside recruiting volunteers, Greenfield Valley Trust is also seeking new trustees as it progresses ambitious long-term plans for the site. People with experience in areas such as heritage, conservation, education and law are being encouraged to consider joining the Board.
The Trust’s vision includes improving accessibility across the Valley, expanding events and visitor experiences, achieving museum accreditation and attracting more than 100,000 visitors annually.
For more information on volunteering, visit Greenfield Valley Volunteer – Greenfield Valley.
For trustee opportunities, visit Greenfield Valley Trustees – Greenfield Valley and view the recruitment pack.
For the latest news, events and information on the Trust’s 10-year plan, visit the Greenfield Valley website or follow Greenfield Valley on social media. Alternatively, email info@greenfieldvalley.com.
