Cromford Mills in tour guides appeal

A volunteer open afternoon is being held at Sir Richard Arkwright’s famous mills from 2pm to 4pm, on Wednesday, February 18, for people to find out how they can become a costumed tour guide.

Volunteer manager Hannah Steggles said: “The use of costumed tour guides is a great way to help our visitors to understand and empathise with the lives of the people who were involved with Cromford Mills and to bring the story of the mills to life.”

The Arkwright Society’s 18th century mill manager character engages with visitors and school groups.

He has proved so popular the Arkwright Society is recruiting volunteer mill workers and other characters to deliver costumed tours.

These tours will take visitors around Cromford Mills and the surrounding area including the village and the canal.

The tour guides will be part of a team of volunteers happy to dress in period costume and engage with visitors.

Tours will be part of a programme covering a range of subjects including how the empire was built, crime and punishments of the time and water power. Volunteers will play researched and prepared characters as well as helping to develop more roles in the future. The Arkwright Society will offer training.

Hannah added: “If you have an interest in history and enjoy drama then this is the role for you.”

To book a place contact Hannah Steggles on (01629) 823256 or email [email protected] by February 17.