A popular military aviation museum in the Maldon district is offering residents the chance to join its award-winning team of volunteers, and is offering a free backstage tour of the site to those interested.

Prospective volunteers are being invited to go behind the scenes at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome on Saturday, 26 February, guided by expert members of the team who will answer any questions.

Roles available include researching the stories of the people and work that was done at the site or cataloguing and caring for its expanding number of objects.

A spokesperson for Stow Maries said: "There are exciting plans afoot for the Great War aerodrome and they will require a growing team of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to see them achieved.

"You could develop your love of early aviation by learning all about Stow Maries and passing on your enthusiasm to our visitors.

"If you enjoy meeting people you could nothing better than help provide visitors with a warm

welcome in the reception and shop area. "Most people want to buy a souvenir of their day at Stow Maries and the shop is bursting with beautiful and interesting things to buy. "The original airmen's mess building houses our café and there is always a tasty menu on offer. "The team is keen for more new faces to join the friendly band of catering volunteers, taking orders and serving delicious meals and snacks. You never know who will turn up for a coffee and cake." Stow Maries houses Europe's largest collection of Royal Flying Corps (RFC) WW1 buildings which were not adapted for further military use later in its history. Its team of volunteers has already been recognised for its dedication on a national level, after receiving the Queen's Award for Voluntary Services (QAVS) in 2019. Ann Barrett, who has been the volunteer coordinator at Stow Maries for six years, said: "Stow Maries and its people have become a big part of my life. "It is so rewarding to be part of such an exciting project that keeps alive the contribution made by the RFC and local people during the Great War." No registration is needed for the backstage tour - those who wish to attend should simply ask for a behind the scenes wristband at the museum's shop. The hour-long tour will begin at 10.30am, finishing with a cup of tea or coffee at the mess. Stow Maries can be found on Hackmans Lane in Purleigh, Maldon. It is currently open to the public from 10am to 4pm on Fridays to Sundays. Pre-arranged group visits, including coach trips, can be made by appointment.