You can support the work of the trust in a number of different ways; by volunteering, by simply being a member or by making a donation.
Volunteering
It is important to note that the onus on volunteers is to be welcoming and that it’s not necessary to have a huge knowledge of the buildings’ history and heritage. We meet people from all over the world and all we need are volunteers to give them is a warm Forresian welcome.
We do provide volunteers with information packs if they wish to learn more about the building, but what we really need are people on hand just to say hello. The volunteering is not onerous, it can be very rewarding and is a lot of fun.
Volunteer at Nelson’s Tower
For reasons of public safety we must have two volunteers available at the tower when it is open to the public. This is for two hours between 2pm-4pm throughout the summer season (April-September).
The tower is very much a self-guided tour, with the visitor scaling the steps so they can enjoy the fantastic views and beauty of our surroundings.
Some of our volunteers simply do the odd day when they are available, some one shift per month whilst others are happy to do one per week. On each duty you will find a partner working with you and a varied source of conversation in quieter moments. Whatever an individual volunteer is able to do is always greatly appreciated.
A monthly rota is compiled and available to all volunteers.
Volunteer at the Tolbooth
The trust organises tours of the historic building which take visitors on a journey from the old police office and cells through the back corridors, up via a cell where you can enjoy a model of the old Forres railway and station and then head into the courtroom. The visit is then finished outside, on the parapet of the clocktower where people can enjoy views over the town.
We also arrange events in the building where volunteers help with the smooth running by controlling entry, providing refreshments and generally establishing a relaxing and informative atmosphere.
Volunteer guides in the Tolbooth generally work under the same arrangements of two-hour sessions. Training in the presentation of the history of the Tolbooth will be given to new guides.
We also have volunteers working in the Tolbooth on restoration work. If you have building services skills or just like making tea and having a blether with like-minded folk then we would love to see you.
If you would like to be a volunteer either in the Tolbooth or up at Nelson’s Tower please click on the link below to download the application form.
Join us as a Member
As a member you will receive a regular newsletter and be kept up to date of events and happenings with the Forres Heritage Trust. If you would like to be a member, download the membership application form.
Make a Donation
The Forres Heritage Trust is totally reliant on donations to maintain and support its objectives. If you would like to make a donation then please click on the link below.
If you would like any further information then click on the link to send a message to our Secretary via the contact page.