PEOPLE who are crazy about canals, curious about clay pits, passionate about countryside paths and heavily into history and heritage may like to pop along to one of Teignbridge’s architectural gems this week.

A special open evening is being held at Newton Abbot’s Old Forde House where anyone interested in volunteer work at a range of attractions across the authority area will learn about valuable contributions they can make.

Teignbridge District Council is organising the heritage volunteer fair this Thursday (July 14) from 6-8pm at the Grade I listed building where illustrious 17th century guests included Charles I and William, Prince of Orange.

Anyone with an interest in getting involved with local heritage and wildlife assets is invited to drop in and learn more from a wide range of local groups, museums, civic societies and more - many of which are dedicating their time and efforts to preserving and promoting historical sites.

Visitors will be able to meet representatives and find out about getting involved in practical outdoor works such as wildlife monitoring and path works with countryside rangers.

Organisations taking part so far include Stover Canal Trust, Ball Clay History Society, Friends of the Railway Studies Collection, Bovey Tracey Heritage Trust, Teign Heritage (Teignmouth and Shaldon Museum), Valiant Soldier, Homeyards Shaldon, Newton Abbot Civic Society and Teignbridge Countryside Rangers.

And those minded to take up the invite will have a chance to look around Old Forde House.

Cllr Doug Hellier Laing, Teignbridge District Council’s executive member for economy, skills and tourism, said: ‘Teignbridge is delighted to be hosting this summer early evening event. We’d encourage people to come along as it an ideal opportunity to learn more about some of the hidden assets in our fascinating area and find out more about getting involved from an occasional hour to a regular slot can be good for both you and the community.’

He added: ‘There are lots of opportunities to be part of something amazing, to become involved and make a real difference.

‘Volunteering can be a great way to get experience and enhance a CV, but for most people it is also good fun, sociable and worthwhile.’