COALHOUSE Fort, one of Thurrock's most important historic landmarks, is looking for volunteers.

As part of the Reanimating Coalhouse Fort project, the team is seeking people to help maintain the fort and its surrounding grounds, as well as supporting the delivery of public events throughout the year.

Cllr George Monk, Cabinet Member for Deregulation, Efficiency and Civic Pride, said: "Thurrock has a rich and amazing cultural history of which Coalhouse Fort is a unique example. Volunteering at the Fort is a great way to help celebrate the borough's history and help maintain the historic site as one of Thurrock's leading tourist attractions."

The Reanimating Coalhouse Fort is developing plans to bring the casements, gate house and parade ground back into community, education and business use, involving the local community and people with an interest in history.

Kevin Diver, Coalhouse Fort's Community Engagement Officer, said: "Volunteering at Coalhouse Fort is a fantastic opportunity to be part of preserving an important local landmark while also supporting the wider community. It's also a great way to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and spend time in a unique and beautiful setting."

Steven has been a volunteer at the Fort since he was a teenager. Steven said: "I decided to volunteer because I wanted to contribute to something meaningful within the community and help preserve an important local landmark. Volunteering introduced me to a wide range of fascinating people and experiences that have kept me involved for many years."

Built between 1861-1874, Coalhouse Fort was one of several forts constructed to defend the Thames estuary. During WWII, it was commissioned as HMS St Clements and played a key role in protecting against waterborne and aerial attacks.

Today, the fort remains a significant heritage site, welcoming visitors who want to explore its surrounding parkland.

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The Reanimating Coalhouse Fort project is supported by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Kevin Diver via email at [email protected]. Or go to www.thurrock.gov.uk/volunteering

To discover more about Reanimating Coalhouse Fort, go to https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/coalhouse-fort-park/coalhouse-fort