by Martin Smith, Volunteer
I have spent many a shift wondering why I volunteer at the maritime museum. I have come to the conclusion that in some way or another I actually enjoy it. Whether it is that you never know who you are to speak to next or whether they have an interesting tale or experience relating to the sea to tell which I learn from, I am not sure. But certainly my life and knowledge of all things nautical has broadened since I joined over 2 years ago. I have learnt a great deal from some of the volunteers, especially the ones who had been to sea for a career. And then again, I enjoy meeting, talking and hopefully helping visitors enjoy their visit to the museum. The icing on the cake is, as today, when a lady thanked me for making her visit so enjoyable. To be very honest, she was more knowledgeable about the 'classic' boats on the pontoon than I was. Yes, to be a volunteer can be very rewarding.
So if, on a quiet day, you wonder why you are here, just remember that there's time to have a really good conversation with a visitor, and that in doing so you will make all the difference to their visit.
