A display showing how life was in the Vale of White Horse around the time of 1930 opened at the Pendon Museum opened more than half a century ago.

From its beginning in 1954, volunteers have run the museum in Long Wittenham. Roye England, Pendon's founder, had a special knack of persuading visitors to join the long-term project and people have been volunteering ever since. However, there is always room for more.

People from all over the UK have become involved. David Day, a volunteer and supporter, said: "There have even been a few helpers based abroad. The museum is world famous for the quality of the modelling on exhibit, and that is at the root of everything the volunteers do.

"While the intention of the project is to demonstrate a style of rural living, including the railways of more than 70 years ago, most visitors will go away with the memory of the exquisite art of modelling - truly three-dimensional art."

Volunteers can help in all aspects of the project.

"The skills of top modellers are the hardest to find and, in common with so many organisations these days, attracting younger members is difficult." said David.

While the modellers may be at the apex, a broad base of other volunteers supports them. Volunteers sell entrance tickets to visitors, serve refreshments and run the shop. This is the area where most volunteers begin, and it can be valuable experience for younger people.

The Vale of White Horse landscape area has volunteer guides who tell visitors about the displays and answer questions about modelling techniques. These guides are offered training that includes trips into the real Vale to see the cottages, farms and landscapes that have been modelled. One volunteer commented: "There is something quite magical about seeing the prototype of a model that has become familiar in reality." The other main exhibit is a miniature landscape representing a GWR branch line in Devon during the days of steam. It has two volunteers driving the miniature trains and giving an informative commentary about each as it appears. The museum provides training to the volunteers in this area too.Those who are able can do more if they choose, especially on Wednesdays during school holidays. In addition to the front of house' volunteers, The museum also relies on help with marketing, administration and maintenance.

Most volunteers make a commitment of one session a month - either a Saturday or Sunday. They can claim for petrol costs, but, with the rising cost of fuel, the museum would like to recruit more local volunteers. To find out more visit www.pendonmuseum.com or telephone 01865 408143 any weekday morning between 9am and noon.