A SEARCH has been launched to find enthusiastic volunteers to join the team helping to keep the Yorkshire Dales National Park in top shape.

Volunteers make a huge contribution to caring for this very special place and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) is looking to recruit 14 new helpers to join its Dales Volunteers.

The new volunteers will be based in one of the four teams that cover the different areas of the national park.

Volunteers co-ordinator Kate Hilditch said: “Our fantastic volunteers bring their expertise, enthusiasm and dedication to a huge range of tasks.

“The new volunteers could get involved in practical work such as repairing footpaths, drystone walling and surveying historic features, species and habitats, as well as leading our programme of guided walks and supporting education activities – the list is long and varied.”

Becoming a Dales Volunteers is a long-term volunteering opportunity aimed at those who can give at least 15 days per year.

To apply, volunteers must live within 35 miles of one of the YNDPA’s southern bases (Grassington or Stainforth) or within 40 miles of a northern one (Hawes or Aysgarth Falls).

Kate said: “You don’t need to have any specific qualifications to become a Dales Volunteer – just a love of the Yorkshire Dales and the time and enthusiasm to commit to a variety of voluntary activities.

“You will need to be able to engage with people from all backgrounds and have the ability to work independently or as part of a team.”

Training is provided and the deadline for applications is Sunday, August 23.

For more information, visit yorkshiredales.org.uk/looking-after/howyoucanhelp/volunteering or email volunteers@yorkshiredales.org.uk