VOLUNTEERS are being urged to help turn Dorset's historic houses into homes.

The National Trust is looking for people to help improve visitor experiences to properties with links to two of the area's most famous sons.

Volunteers are needed for Hardy's Cottage at Higher Bockhampton, where author Thomas Hardy was born, as well as at the writer's former home at Max Gate in Dorchester, and Lawrence of Arabia's former home at Clouds Hill near Bovington.

The three properties will be opening from March 1 and the National Trust is looking for guides and other volunteers to help give visitors a warm welcome.

There are different roles to suit different interests, from helping with school groups or costumed cooking demonstrations to retail assistants, reception point duties and sharing the stories of the homes and their former owners with visitors.

Annette Joyce started as a volunteer room guide at Clouds Hill last year and says she has fallen in love with it, and her role.

She said: "I look forward to the days I am there as I always come away having had an enjoyable few hours sharing so many stories with visitors and fellow volunteers.

"It’s rewarding when people thank you for enhancing their visit, however I wonder if they know how much their visit helps me."

Find out more at one of the drop-in sessions on Wednesday, February 1, from noon to 4pm at both Clouds Hill and Hardy’s Cottage and from noon to 7pm at Max Gate.