THE National Trust is appealing for volunteers to help welcome thousands of visitors to one of its premier local attractions, Croft Castle, near Leominster.

The trust is staging a Volunteer Open Day at the castle on April 12 from 2pm to 8pm.

Victor Chelliah, house steward at Croft Castle, said: "We can offer a great variety of interesting volunteer roles from helping with welcoming visitors as a room steward, garden steward or car park kiosk volunteer, helping in the tea-room or second-hand bookshop, to getting involved in practical gardening.

"All we ask is that volunteers are enthusiastic, and enjoy meeting people. They can gain experience or share their skills with us or take on a new challenge. We provide interesting surroundings and full training, and no experience is necessary."

Information is available from the castle on 01568 780246.