A BORDERS visitor attraction is inviting keen locals to join its team of volunteers.

Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott near Melrose is looking for enthusiastic volunteers of all ages to join as room stewards and courtyard welcome roles.

The Abbotsford Trust is hosting a volunteer open day on Sunday, May 22 from 11am-1pm to give prospective volunteers to meet staff and the team of volunteers, all of whom can talk about the opportunities at Abbotsford and the benefits of getting involved.

READ MORE: NHS Borders receive more than 900 comments on Care Opinion platform

Volunteer co-ordinator at Abbotsford Karen O’ Brien-Barrett said: “Abbotsford has been welcoming visitors since Sir Walter died in 1832 and our volunteers mean the world to us; we simply wouldn’t be able to run a successful five-star tourist attraction without them."

In 2018 Abbotsford was the first historic house museum in Scotland to be awarded a national award for its volunteer programme – the Volunteer Friendly Award, which is a national scheme for organisations working with volunteers.

Ms O'Brien-Barrett added: "No prior knowledge is expected – all you need is a smile and a genuine interest to learn about Abbotsford and to support our important charitable work.

"Some of our volunteers do a couple of days a week, while others just do a shift once a month.

"It all helps us to preserve Scott’s legacy for future generations.”

READ MORE: Year of Stories: Borders showcased in VisitScotland campaign

To view current volunteering opportunities at Abbotsford, as well as further information, visit: scottsabbotsford.com or email volunteering@scottsabbotsford.co.uk.

Alternatively, you can attend the volunteer open day at Abbotsford from 11am-1pm on Sunday, May 22.