A volunteer recruitment day for a major tourist attraction in Weymouth will be taking place this month.

The Nothe Fort is now one of the town's major attractions, with its museum, education programme and numerous public events.

But not many people know about the small army of willing volunteers that offer many skills and a great deal of time to the day-to-day operations and on-going maintenance programme.

One of the Fort’s long serving and still highly valued volunteers is now 92. Eric Manton, a former graphic designer and college lecturer said: “I strongly believe working at the fort has provided many interests and comradeships over the years as well as a lot of fun - and of course it gets me out of the house."

Fort chairman Brian Martin added: “It's been great to meet so many people and I have personally enjoyed building relationships with them. The sustainability of this local heritage attraction is in their hands."

Volunteering opportunities include a shop administrator, working on reception, events co-ordinator, electricians, carpenters, graphic designers, model makers, working on the evacuee experience, collection assistants, interpretation researchers and working with the Nothe Fort artillery.

Reception work involves cash handling and serving in the shop. No qualifications are required except for the ability to communicate with our visitors, show enthusiasm, be helpful and have a good sense of humour at all times. Full training will be given.

The Nothe Fort host regular events and a variety of themed events throughout the year and is always looking for people to assist with event stewarding and event organising.

The World War II Evacuee Experience for primary schools is still extremely popular and is designed to meet curriculum requirements. To meet demand and accommodate any more schools in the future the Fort needs more help.

The Fort artillery volunteers were formed as an adjunct to the Fort but have become a mainstay of the active Fort, giving parades, cannon and musket drill displays. They have proved very popular at special events and practice every other Sunday throughout the year. The group also give demonstrations at venues outside of the Fort and can be hired for special events. This Victorian re-enactment group are always looking for people to join them. Training and uniforms will be provided.

The volunteer recruitment day at the Nothe Fort will be held on Saturday, January 27 from 11am until 4pm.

If you are interested then you can pop along or for more information contact the Fort on 01305 766626 or visit nothefort.org.uk