Volunteer: George Dalton

When were you a museum volunteer?

For the week commencing 15th February 2010.

Where did you volunteer?

Museum of the Manchester Regiment.

What inspired you to become a volunteer?

I am really interested in military history and thought it would be good to experience behind the scenes at a museum and get close to the exhibitions.

What did you do as a museum volunteer?

I helped with the general running of the museum including helping to clean and label some of the artefacts in the store ready for display. I also worked on a project about ‘Boy Soldiers’ which involved some research. I was front of house quite a lot as well so was able to speak to visitors.

What training and support did you get as a museum volunteer?

I was given an induction when I first arrived showing me where everything was. All the staff were really helpful and gave me lots of support and told me all about how the Museum works and make it really interesting . I never felt bored and learnt so much from everyone.

What skills and experiences did you gain as a volunteer?

Overall I felt that a gained more confidence in myself when speaking to the staff and visitors. I learnt a lot about what staff do in a museum and the different tasks they are involved in and it was really exciting to see many of the artefacts up close. It has helped increase my knowledge of military history and mostly about the Manchester Regiment.

What would you say to others thinking of becoming a museum volunteer?

Definitely get involved if you can because it’s really interesting. You get to see a museum in a completely different way. There are so many different things involved behind the scenes and it feels really good to be part of it.

What was the best thing about being a museum volunteer?

I really enjoyed everyday and thought all the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was good to have something interesting to do in the school holidays rather than being bored, it felt really rewarding.

What was the worst thing about being a museum volunteer?

Nothing.