Town centre ambassadors wanted

The search is on for a team of willing volunteers to help and to welcome visitors to Darlington.Darlington Borough Council’s town centre and partnerships team is recruiting a band of willing volunteers who will act as ambassadors for the town centre. Once trained, they will help to welcome people to the town and give assistance with directions to attractions, shops and information on events.

Volunteers need to be over 18 years of age and willing to offer a few hours a week to help promote the town. A Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check will also need to be undertaken as some events will involve working around children.

Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for Economy and Regeneration said: “With our #LoveDarlo campaign already up and running, we know there is a lot of love for the town. The key thing now is to spread the word to visitors about the positive things about Darlington and what it has to offer.

“It’s all part of our plan to help promote the town, improve the town centre in a range of ways and make sure people who come here get the most from their visit and are made to feel welcome.

Chelsea Johnson, Darlington Cares Programme Officer, added: “Volunteering is becoming a movement in Darlington. With over 11,000 hours donated to Darlington Cares projects last year, people are definitely realising the benefits of giving back to their local community.”

Susan Young, Cornmill Shopping Centres’ Centre Manager, said: “Being at the heart of Darlington’s community we’re passionate about supporting initiatives which will benefit our town and increase activity for local businesses and organisations.

"By coming together and celebrating our town, these volunteers will not only make visitors feel at ease and welcome but will also help to ensure the success of the town and everything it has to offer.”

Anyone keen to find out more can visit the special stand at the Volunteer Fair taking place at the Dolphin Centre on Thursday 7 February from 2-6pm. Organised by Darlington Cares, the event will see a wide range of organisations offering information and advice on local volunteering opportunities. Anyone unable to attend the volunteer fair can email [email protected] 

Photo caption L-R: Peter Ratcliffe and Kathryn Northall the first town centre ambassadors, Katie Greenwood, Town Centre Partnership Officer and Chelsea Johnson, Darlington Cares Programme Officer.