Tunnel Support

Join our tunnel guide team and support tours of Victoria Tunnel – the number one thing to do in Newcastle on TripAdvisor.

Our guides lead short 75-minute tours and longer 2-hour tours both for the public and private groups. This role supports our guides with delivery of the tour, but does not need to have full training on the history and content. The Tunnel Support role is focused on tour operations.

Tours are delivered by pairs, and we support our volunteers to buddy up or to lead tours with a range of people, whichever suits them most.

There is also opportunity to get involved in supporting tours for schools and our special event programme – from Halloween and Christmas to stewarding music events and hosting Tipples in the Tunnel. Take a look at our website to see the full range.

The role involves

• Opening and setting up the Tunnel, including health and safety checks
• Organise and hand out hard hats and torches to tunnel visitors
• Bringing up the rear of the tour group to prevent stragglers and help keep the group moving
• Reclaim the torches and helmets, and close down the Tunnel after a tour

Other responsibilities may include:

• Getting involved with our ‘rod squad’ to help maintain the tunnel
• Coming up with ideas and help organise events
• First Aid training

Tunnel Supporters usually volunteer for 2-3 hours at a time. Tours usually last 1¼ or 2 hours and run weekdays, evenings and weekends. Volunteering can be regular or occasional, and willingness to step in at short notice is very much appreciated.

We hope to see Tunnel Supporters on tours at least once a month.

What to do next Complete the form here: 

https://ouseburntrust.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/victoria-tunnel-support/

Or come to one of our Volunteer Drop In tours on the last Thursday of the month.

Skills

Volunteers will need:

• Experience of working with people
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• The enthusiasm and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Access to email and mobile phone text for tour planning

This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who enjoys meeting new people
• Keen to learn more about Victoria Tunnel
• You enjoy supporting and being supported by other members of a team
• You want to give your time and enthusiasm to help us preserve this iconic landmark for future generations whilst sharing stories of its past with the visitors of today