EVERYONE needs friends and we are truly blessed with one particular dedicated group we have at our site.

The Friends of Oakwell Hall and Country Park was established in 1988 with the aim of bringing a team together to support everything we do here in a variety of innovative and imaginative ways.

Regulars act as guides in the hall on selected Sunday afternoons in the summer – sometimes in period costume.

They are always on hand at major events, giving out information, organising car parking and providing refreshments for the crowds – their delicious home-baked goodies are the stuff of legend for our visitors!

Chairman Nigel Hudson said: “We have tea stalls and various events throughout the year to make a little money so we can buy a few extras to help the rangers or perhaps something for the hall.”

There are also lots of outdoor projects with which to get involved, mending fences, tree felling, walling and gardening – a small team of friends are currently working to tidy up the shade garden at the west side of the hall.

Keeping all of the 120 plus members of the friends up to speed is quite an achievement and this is done in style with the group’s newsletter, which has just won its third first place in the small groups category in the British Association of Friends of Museums annual awards.

The letter, edited by Nigel’s wife Lesley, comes out three times a year and also offers another opportunity for anyone joining the friends to have a go at using their writing and photography skills.

Volunteer work parties are on the first Saturday of each month, from 10am, meeting at the depot by the staff car park and opposite the Oak Tree Cafe.

If you are interested in coming along please call vice-chairman Roger Knights on 01924 476156 to check the workshop is taking place and to get further details.

Working alongside our volunteers and staff, our friends group do a wonderful job but I shouldn’t end without giving a heart-felt thank-you to another team of local heroes – mainly residents living nearby – who quietly, without fuss give up their time to carry out other vital roles such as collecting litter or pulling Himalayan balsam in the summer . . . you truly are all friends indeed!

Oakwell Hall and Country Park is in Nutter Lane, Birstall WF17 9LG