Free Open Event for new recruits – join Bideford’s historic steamship!

On Friday 30th June we will be holding a free open event to the public to come along and meet the volunteering team, explore the steamship and learn about the volunteering opportunities currently available on (and off) board! The ship will be open to visit from 3.30-5.30pm and is open to all ages and backgrounds. Our youngest volunteer being 14 years old!

The afternoon will be the opportunity to visit and look around the ship, chat with existing volunteers and ask any questions you have around volunteering; you might be unsure where to start, what skills you could offer and would just like to find out how it all works. There are a range of roles available from administration, to building confidence working with the public, marketing, photography, maintenance and repairs, finance and more. Alongside this, you would be joining an amazing team of friendly and supportive people with a commitment to the ship’s historic heritage and the community.

As a charity, Freshspring is only possible due to the people that continue to support it. Over the years, Freshspring have nurtured their team of volunteers by supporting each person on an individual basis, enabling them to get the best out of the role and to develop their individual skills and knowledge. There is no set commitment to the hours you offer onboard; volunteering can be weekly, monthly or even just a couple of hours every few months working remotely from home to support the charity.

This event has also been planned to support and encourage volunteers within the Bideford area and beyond. Local charity, TTVS, who lead volunteer activity throughout Torridge, will also be in attendance to give advice of volunteering in general in the local area. This afternoon is the chance to learn more about your community and how you can be involved, meet like minded people and give something back.

The afternoon promises to be a fantastic event and there will be plenty of free refreshments to enjoy. The steamship is suitable for all weathers, though hopefully the sun will be shining so you can take full advantage of the fabulous Torridge estuary views!

Parking is available directly next to the steamship at Riverside Long Stay car park. Please join us onboard and learn more about North Devon’s rich maritime history and the group of lovely people behind it!