My New Toy Has Arrived

She's finally arrived, my new ride on mower. Having waited all winter to test the baby out she came this week courtesy of Charles Hill of Horsington. Unlike the old model she's a 4x4, she's got headlights, (as if I'll still be working after dark), hydraulic deck lift, a box to put my lunch in, and a drinks holder. It can turn as you see on a sixpence, albeit a large one.

All I need now is for the grass to start growing, and for that we need some warmer weather.

Volunteer Recruitment

Here at Tattershall Castle we are currently undertaking a volunteer recruitment drive in a bid to get more people involved and participating with everything involved in the running of this historic building. The Castle was visited by over forty thousand people last year and this is only made possible by the team of over thirty volunteers, who all help out in a number of different ways.

Operations Manager Stuart Crow believes that volunteers are integral to the running of the property “It is not an exaggeration to say that without our volunteers the Castle wouldn’t be able to function in that way it does. We hope that this season’s volunteer recruitment will help us get more people from the local community involved. We need extra help in all areas of the running of the property.”

There are various volunteer opportunities available, including everything from room guides, learning assistants, shop assistants and general visitor engagement positions. In particular we are looking for people to help out with the work that goes into organising and running events, distribution of promotional material and assistance with the other promotion of the Castle. We would be especially keen to talk to anybody with a keen interest in wildlife, with a specialist interest in wildlife, invertebrates or wild flowers.

These volunteer opportunities would suit people interested in historic buildings; people who enjoy gardening and meeting people or someone looking to gain work experience. The time commitment involved can range from half a day every month to one day a week or more. After 50 hours of volunteering volunteers earn a volunteer card that gives them free access to any National Trust property (when open), and a 20% discount on any purchase in a National Trust shop. The Trust also pays a mileage allowance towards travel expenses and organises regular social events.

Anybody interested in becoming part of the Tattershall Castle team can contact the property for further details or an informal chat on 01526 342543, or email at tattershallcastle@nationaltrust.org.uk

'Bonus Time' Weekend

The National Trust is opening the doors to its properties for free this spring over the weekend of 20-21 March 2010. In addition to Tattershall Castle, visitors will be able to access 300 of the extraordinary places the Trust cares for throughout the country.

The Bonus Time initiative was launched by National Trust Director General Fiona Reynolds, who said 'This is the perfect excuse to discover what’s on your doorstep, perhaps re-visit somewhere you pass regularly or explore somewhere totally new.'

To make the most of this offer, visitors should download this voucher. All National Trust pay for entry properties, countryside and coastal car parks that are normally open over 20 - 21 March will be participating in the offer.

NB: There will be a number of excluded properties which will be listed here from 1 March 2010