Members of the public are being given the opportunity to become part of a prestigious team of volunteer storytellers at a historic Oxford church.
University Church, in the High Street, has been a place of Christian worship for more than 700 years and was the first home of Oxford University Library. It played host to the trial of Thomas Cranmer in the 16th century, and other historical events including the birth of the Oxford Movement and the founding of Oxfam.
No comprehensive restoration has been undertaken at the church since the late 19th century and the gradual increase in use has placed considerable strain on the building and its facilities. But in 2011 the church was awarded a grant of £3.4m from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the conservation and refurbishment of the building, and the development of new learning resources.
The project includes an education programme for visiting schools, adults and families and the recruitment of a new team of volunteer welcomers and guides. The church’s heritage education and volunteers officer, Lucinda Williams, said the volunteers would be the public face of the church.
"The University Church of St Mary the Virgin is one of England’s most historically important churches, and welcomes around 300,000 visitors each year," she said. "This new team of volunteers will be the first point of contact between the church and its visitors, helping us to tell the story of this magnificent building. We are looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers with a passion for local history. This is a fantastic opportunity for people to find out more about their heritage and share this knowledge with others."
Volunteers will be based at the new welcome desk in the Adam de Brome Chapel, which will act as a focal point for visitors wanting to find out more about the church, its history and its modern practices and events.
All volunteers will receive a comprehensive induction to introduce them to the day-to-day workings of the church and prepare them for their roles. There will also be the opportunity to attend a programme of lectures looking at the history, architecture and church life at St Mary’s, as well as practical workshops in customer care and health and safety.
January 2012 will see the start of the first of four phases of building work due for completion in December 2012. The improvements will include stonework repair, restoration of the interior, improved access to the Old Library, and the construction of the new learning centre.
To apply, visit www.university-church.ox.ac.uk or call 01865 279110 by February 17.
