The work of volunteers in showcasing an historic country house in North Yorkshire has been recognised.
At the annual Charter Day celebration at Kiplin Hall, near Scorton, Richmond, the contribution of more than 200 volunteers was marked by a reception attended by local MP Rishi Sunak.
The volunteers, who carry out a wide range of tasks in the house and its extensive gardens were entertained with drinks and canapes in a marquee erected on the hall’s south lawn.
Many of the volunteers received long service badges for five, 15 and 20 years giving their time to the hall which is open to the public and is run by a charitable trust.
Rishi addressed the volunteers thanking them for their contributions.
He said: “Kiplin Hall is a gem and your work helping visitors get the very best from their Kiplin experience is what makes the hall special. You are invaluable in helping to explain the hall’s history and making it accessible and enjoyable.
“On behalf of the thousands of visitors who come to Kiplin every year, can I thank you for everything that you do. Without your contribution Kiplin would not be the place that my family fell in love with more than ten years ago and we return to regularly.”
During his visit, Rishi met a number of visitors from the state of Maryland who travelled from the United States for what was a special anniversary Charter Day. It is 400 years since the hall was built by George Calvert and the Charter Day celebrates the granting of a charter to the Calverts giving them permission to establish a colony overseas.
That colony became Maryland and many of the US visitors were direct descendants of the families who sailed to the New World in the 17th century.
James Etherington, the Hall’s Director, said "We were delighted that Rishi Sunak could join us to celebrate Charter Day and the incredible contribution our volunteers make. Kiplin Hall and Gardens simply could not operate without the time, skill and support of our wonderful fifth family of volunteers.
“Sharing the celebrations with Rishi and our American guests made the occasion all the more special. The celebrations not only marked an incredible milestone of 400 years, but a sense of kinship between us walking in Calvert’s footsteps here in the UK and the descendants of Calvert and the settlers in the USA."
If you would like to get involved and volunteer at Kiplin Hall & Gardens you can find out more at www.kiplinhall.co.uk or call 01748 818178.
Kiplin Hall & Gardens is open to visitors six days a week and closed on Thursdays.
