We’re grateful for our amazing team of hard-working volunteers that give up their precious time to support us and make a difference to the life of the museum and grounds. Gallery stewards Christine and David, have volunteered with us for 11 years. If you visit us on a Wednesday morning, you’ll probably see them as soon as you walk through our museum entrance. They love to make sure that our visitors have the best experience! We caught up with the married duo to find out more.
What was your last occupation?
Christine: I was a pharmacy technician at James Cook University Hospital.
David: I was a sales and business executive for an office furniture company.
Why do you like volunteering here?
We’ve always worked with people in a customer focused environment and love talking to people. We tell visitors about the history of the hall and help them to enjoy the museum so they get the most out of their visit.
Would you recommend volunteering?
Yes we would definitely recommend it. You get more out of it than you put in.
What object in the museum would you like to see come to life?
Christine: The Dice Players! I’d like to know what game they were playing.
David: The Bell Carriage as I’d love to drive around in it!
What’s the strangest thing that has ever happened to you at the museum?
David: When Christine and I were first married, we lived in Bishopgarth. Our next door neighbour was the grandson of local hero Ned Cooper. We’d moved away and lost contact but 5 years ago I met him again while volunteering at the museum! We hadn’t seen each other for about 40 years. He was bringing his children to see Ned’s Victoria Cross which is on display at the museum.
Find out more about volunteering at Preston Park Museum & Grounds
