05/07/2026
Volunteer Wednesdays at High Mill, Alston
Starting Wednesday 15th, High Mill will be holding a regular volunteer day every Wednesday, 10:00am–4:30pm.
We will be skipping Wednesday 22nd due to jury duty, then continuing every Wednesday for the foreseeable future.
This is a chance to get involved at the very beginning of an exciting restoration project and help bring one of Alston’s most important historic buildings back to life.
There is work available for all levels of ability. Some jobs will be light and practical, while others will suit people who are happy to get properly stuck in. Early tasks will include:
Clearing rooms ready for contract works
Moving and sorting materials
Light demolition, including removing old ceilings
Sorting through historic casting moulds, disposing of damaged ones and cleaning/preserving the interesting examples
De-nailing timber joints
Sanding staircases and floors
Assisting with interior joinery work
Hacking out old mortar
Learning how hot lime is used before helping with future room fit-outs
As the project develops, and subject to prospective funding in 2027, we hope to offer training opportunities in hot lime pointing, lime plastering and lime washing. These are traditional building skills that will be central to the repair and conservation of High Mill.
There will be 7 volunteer training spaces available, offered on a first come, first considered basis, so getting involved early is a great way to show interest and help secure a place.
No experience is necessary. PPE will be provided (bring your own steel-toe-cap footwear if needed). All we ask is that you bring a willingness to help, learn, and be part of something meaningful.
Whether you can stay for the full day or just drop in for a few hours, you would be very welcome.
Come along, get stuck in, learn new skills, and help preserve Alston’s heritage.
Contact Jon Muir on 07514480109 or message us here [email protected]
