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Volunteering
opportunities

Welcome : The Heritage Boatyard : Volunteering opportunities : News : Boats : Tradition : Research : Publications : Links : Diary : Contacts

The Boat Museum Society works closely with National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port, management to organise and develop Museum volunteering. In particular the BMS provides training and support, and new volunteers also receive free membership of the Society.

All volunteers

  • become part of an enthusiastic community of people
  • spend time in a unique and historic, waterside setting
  • learn about fascinating histories and stories
  • work in a sociable and friendly environment
  • use their skills and knowledge in new and rewarding ways
  • hone or learn new skills.
Volunteers also receive free soup or a sandwich
in the museum's waterside café when they work a half day or a day.

We need volunteers to help out in many different ways

polishing in Porter's Row   tending the fire

Daphne and Di hard at work in the kitchen of a cottage in Porter's Row

Whether you have a few hours a month or a few hours a day, we would love to hear from you. 

For more information or to register interest, click here to send email or phone us on 0151 355 5017.

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BMS Waterways Craft Group

This expanding group meets monthly in the Island Warehouse, upper floor, to demonstrate the traditional crafts of the inland waterways. The full list of dates is in the Diary.

Crafts demonstrated include boatman's belt embroidery, bonnet making, cabin crochet, canal ware painting, rag rugging, patchwork, leather belt making, and lace plate decoration.

Coffee and Crochet group meets in the cafe on Tuesdays 10.15am to 12.15pm to make blankets and lace for the boats. Everyone welcome - free coffee - free tuition - free materials.

New members are most welcome and tuition is offered to beginners.

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Gifford and Worcester rotas

Currently we have a one day in every four week rota. With a few extra hands we could move to a one in every six week rota. Duties include general checking of the boats, lighting a fire to keep Gifford aired, removing water from the bilges and general ‘TLC’ Work could be on any day in the week but is currently carried out on Sundays.

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Welcome : The Heritage Boatyard : Volunteering opportunities : News : Boats : Tradition : Research : Publications : Links : Diary : Contacts