VIDEO: Philomena brings '40s to life for visitors
An insider's view of volunteering at Bletchley Park
Philomena Liggins adjusts her deep red hat and steps out of the mansion into the grey afternoon.
As she strides forward, talking factually yet nostalgically, a group of followers hang on her every word.
She speaks of history and secrets, technology and innovation, genius minds and pioneers.
And all the while, those captivated behind see an elegant woman dressed in a neat red dog's tooth skirt suit, a fur-like stole and glimmering pearls.
It is February 2010 but Philomena is a vision of the 1940s – a time when Britain was at war.
The followers are being toured around Bletchley Park – and as they look into and at buildings and devices which played a crucial role in
Britain's victory, Philomena's animated and detailed words are taking them on a trip down memory lane.
During the trip she tells people how the Park is looking for more volunteers to enhance its work and deal with ever increasing numbers of visitors.
The influx to which Philomena is referring has been seen at the Park during the past few years, including the many successes of 2009.
One of these highlights was a ceremony attended by HRH The Duke of Kent who announced commemorative badges were being awarded to the codebreakers of the park.
However a less well-known aspect of the special occasion was the awarding of certificates of appreciation given to 16 volunteers who had served Bletchley Park Trust for 16 years or more.
At that sunny July event, Trust director Simon Greenish told the volunteers: "We couldn't operate without you."
Returning from the drizzle, Philomena, who has been involved for two years, agrees.
Her group on their way, she retreats to the cosy library where her cheeks, rosy from the walk, frame a smile as she talks about being a volunteer.
She said: "We volunteers tend to join because we've got an interest in the war and history – and also because we like people."
The former interior and clothing designer explains how volunteering can be tailored to fit around other commitments.
"Some staff take two weekday tours a week, while others just work at the weekend. And all the while we rely also on stewards and people in customer services – those who are based in the buildings who oversee the tours and make sure the visitors are happy.
"I have to admit the touring itself can be tiring to begin with – you often walk for an hour and a half at a time – and I actually lost half a stone in weight when I started."
Philomena herself looks delicate yet determined as she stands in the library, pouring over books containing everything from the complex mathematical workings of the codebreakers to fascinating and poignant diarised accounts of life at the Park.
"Research is a vital part of being a volunteer and you are encouraged from the start to read up on the history," she explains.
"I am actually taking a two-month sabbatical to carry out some research after a veteran's son sent us a letter from the Royal Navy sick quarters."
Mr Greenish adds: "We simply need nore people to do the guided tours and look after our visitors."
>> Anyone who who wants to volunteer at Bletchley Park should contact co-ordinator Niki Holmes-Bridges on MK 272675, e-mail volunteer@bletchleypark.org.uk or visit www.bletchleypark.org.uk for further information.
>> Watch reporter Natalee Hazelwood's video of Philomena in action by clicking on the above player.
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