National Trust in new drive to retain members

The conservation charity received £129m from membership charges in the last financial year which helped preserve more than 300 historic houses, nearly 620,000 acres of land and 700 miles of coastline nationally.

The trust has four million members – making it the largest membership organisation in the country – with fees starting at £39.75 for an individual or from £43.50 for a family. But the charity’s directors have admitted there are fears that members will cancel subscriptions as they look to contain expenditure amid the ongoing economic crisis.

A recruitment drive has been launched to sign up leading professionals to shape a blueprint for Yorkshire which will include strategic finance and risk management. The trust is seeking for three new members for its Yorkshire and the North East Regional Advisory Board, which advises the regional director Jan Bibby and the executive team.

The new board members will also promote sustainable tourism in the countryside and help draw up plans for the management of the trust’s visitor attractions.

Ms Bibby said: “At a time when it’s wise to be prudent economically, we know that membership can provide value for money and ensure people have great days out at places they love to visit.

“As well as welcoming new members, we work hard on retention, giving people reasons to remain a member of the organisation and ensure they will keep coming back to visit their favourite places.”

The board is chaired by Olivia Grant, the former chairman and Pro-Chancellor of Newcastle University. Other members include professionals who work across a wide variety of industries with experience in tourism management, commercial and hospitality, architecture and historic buildings, economic development and archaeology. Information on joining the board is available by emailing [email protected] or calling 01904 771902. The closing date for applications is January 31.