VOLUNTEERS are a vital part of the Ilkley Manor House Trust team, and the Trust is delighted to announce that they have been awarded the ‘People Can’ volunteering quality mark by Volunteering Bradford - a great way to celebrate national Volunteers Week (June 1-7, 2021).

“Achieving the quality mark highlights the positive experience of the Manor House volunteers, as well as the important role volunteers play in keeping the Manor House open for the community,” says Sarah Thomas, Chair of the Trust.

Steve Blackman, CEO, Volunteering Bradford, added: “We are delighted that Ilkley Manor House has successfully achieved the Bradford & District People Can Volunteering Quality Mark. It evidences their commitment to good practice in volunteer management and demonstrates that their volunteers receive a high quality, positive volunteering experience.”

Lynne Burnett, Ilkley Manor House Volunteer Steward, is looking forward to welcoming visitors back. “I’ve really missed the links to the local community that volunteering at the House provides. Sharing the fascinating history of the House with visitors is a great feeling,” she said.

The Grade 1 Listed Medieval house sits in the heart of Ilkley town centre and is a centre for arts, heritage and events – a hub for the local community as well as attracting visitors to the town.

Though the house has been closed for much of the past year, it now has plans to re-open at the weekends from Saturday, July 3.

In the run up to this date, Ilkley Manor House will continue to hold events in the courtyard, a peaceful outdoor space, easily accessible to the public.

The ‘Ilkley from the Air’ exhibition is still being exhibited in the courtyard but keep a look out for a small teaser exhibition of the Ilkley Lockdown Quilt, happening in the courtyard in June.

An arts & crafts makers’ fair is also planned for the courtyard over the weekend of June 26 and 27, and there are lots more plans for the summer months too.

“In the run up to Volunteers’ week, it’s great to be able to reflect on the efforts of our volunteers,” said Helen Hawney, Volunteer Coordinator, Ilkley Manor House.

“We’re thrilled that our volunteer programme has been recognised as being of a high standard, and we hope it will enhance our volunteer experience and motivate others to join the team.

“Our volunteers helped to bring life to the courtyard and the House during the pandemic - from trustees, stewards and DIY-ers, to storytellers, gardeners and snowflake makers.

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back in July.”

If you are interested in joining the Manor House volunteer team, contact Helen for an informal chat on 07480 064645 or email volunteer@ilkleymanorhouse.org