GHODs launch volunteer search for 2025 events
By Gaye Spencer
GOSPORT HERITAGE OPEN DAYS (GHODS) have launched a search for local history buffs and organisers as they start preparing for a special week of free events across the borough later this year, which will take place from September 12 to September 21 as part of the national festival and is set to be enjoyed by thousands of residents.
The organisation help run the trial events across Gosport back in 1992 and the area has been involved in the festival every single year since; but GHODs are looking for new volunteers to join their team for 2025. This includes people who can give guided walks or interesting talks and assist the opening of heritage buildings; as well as those who can greet the public and get involved throughout the nine days of events.
The national theme for 2025 is architecture and this suits Gosport’s landscape; particularly with buildings ranging from Fort Brockhurst to the Gosport towers, its grand follies to garden greenhouses and the wonders of nature’s builders (crafting nests and spiderwebs). Organisers can be inspired by the structures that surround us and tell stories, celebrate the makers, the menders, the materials and more!
Terry Rhodes, Chair of Gosport Heritage Open Days stated: “Last year it was fabulous to have so many people wanting to get involved and create new events along our connections and transport theme. With so many forts, bastions, Georgian buildings and interesting architecture we hope even more people will get involved with this architecture theme!”
She continued: “Do make this the year you reach out and get involved either by talking to us about a possible event, becoming a volunteer to help behind the scenes and meeting the public. This is your chance to make the most of this incredible national festival community on your doorstep.”
People or organisations with ideas for events about Gosport’s heritage (especially those related to architecture) should contact the team via https://www.gosportheritage.co.uk/get-involved/open-doors/ or by emailing events@gosportheritage.co.uk. They will then be contacted by a member of the GHODs team, who should be able to help them deliver their event at any point during the above dates in September.
Heritage Open Days (HODs) is run by the National Trust, who are supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations / volunteers, HODs brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history; with more information available here.
PICTURED BY GOSPORT HERITAGE OPEN DAYS (GHODS): Visitors attend an open event at Haslar Hospital under glorious sunshine; the building dating back to the eighteenth century.
