Over the years, National Waterways Museum volunteers Barbara and Chris have gained a significant knowledge of the history and operation of the museum.
Much of Barbara's later career was spent as the financial director of a local authority. With her passion for data and spreadsheets, Barbara had always believed she didn't have a creative bone in her body, until she started volunteering at the museum in 2009.
Now Barbara is a central member of the marketing team supporting all creative activities including producing copy, posters, flyers, newsletters, videos and social media content.
Throughout the summer months, you can often see her dressed in traditional costume, welcoming and guiding guests at the Canal Town ‘living museum' events that take place each Sunday.
Volunteer Chris has a similar tale. He was chief executive of a local authority, enjoying down-time from his high-pressured job through a range of hobbies including history, photography and film.
After Chris retired, he began volunteering at the National Waterways Museum in 2007 and quickly took on the role of lead tour guide. As he became more experienced in this, he realised there was great scope to introduce his filmmaking and photography skills to the museum.
When Chris isn't giving costumed tours to visitors, you'll probably find him roving around the museum's locks, docks and period cottages with his camera, capturing colourful stories from the site's rich history.
Every day, Barbara and Chris bring boundless energy, enthusiasm and knowledge to the museum and are very much loved and valued volunteers. We can't thank them both enough for the work they do and the contribution they make.
Written by Cath Logan, marketing and comms manager (North West)
