From delivering leaflets to laying cables — every pair of hands, every skill, and every hour makes a difference. This pub will be built on community effort.
Buying and restoring the Somerset Arms will require an enormous amount of effort — and not all of it can be funded. From the day the campaign launched to the day we reopen the doors, volunteers are central to everything we do. We are calling on villagers, friends of Semington, and anyone across the country who wants to roll up their sleeves and be part of something genuinely special.
The work spans two broad phases: Campaign & Fundraising — where we need people to help us spread the word, run events and keep momentum going — and Building & Refurbishment, where we need skilled tradespeople and enthusiastic helpers to help us restore a 200-year-old coaching inn to its former glory.
No experience required for many roles. Whether you can spare an afternoon or commit to weeks on site, there is something here for everyone. If you have a skill we can use, we especially want to hear from you.
Before a single brick is touched, we need help making as much noise as possible. The more people who know about this campaign, the better our chances of reaching our fundraising target.
Helping design and distribute campaign materials, manage social media and drive awareness.
Pounding the pavements in Semington, Melksham, Trowbridge and beyond to get our flyers seen.
Helping organise and run fundraising events, open days, village fetes and pub quiz nights.
Documenting the campaign journey, creating content for social media and press.
Supporting our online presence, email campaigns, and digital advertising.
Identifying and approaching local businesses, grant bodies, and potential sponsors.
Helping with correspondence, scheduling, data entry and keeping the campaign running smoothly behind the scenes.
Transporting materials, equipment, volunteers and supplies to wherever they need to be.
The Somerset Arms is a Grade II listed building that will need careful, skilled restoration work. We are calling on tradespeople with qualifications and experience — whether you can donate time, offer discounted rates, or simply advise on what's needed. If you have a relevant skill, please register below. We will be in touch when the project reaches the right stage.
Once the purchase completes, the real work begins. The Somerset Arms will need a thorough programme of refurbishment — from structural work to decoration — before it can open its doors again. We want to keep costs down by making the most of willing hands in our community and beyond.
All levels of skill welcome — clearing, cleaning, painting, carrying materials and general site support.
Carefully removing fixtures, fittings and materials under professional supervision at the start of the refurb.
Installing doors, windows, bar furniture, shelving and finishing carpentry throughout the pub.
Restoring the much-loved pub garden — landscaping, planting, paving and creating an outdoor space the whole village can enjoy.
Not sure where you fit? Use the form to register your interest and note any skills in the comments. We'll reach out to everyone as the project develops and match people to roles as they arise. No commitment required now — just let us know you're willing.
Tell us who you are and how you'd like to help. Your details will be stored securely via Mailchimp. We'll be in touch as roles become available — no commitment is required at this stage.
Every Contribution Counts
Marketing, leaflet runs, press, social media, photography, events and spreading the word.
Identifying grants and sponsors, running fundraising events and supporting the share offer outreach.
Electricians, plumbers, roofers, carpenters, plasterers and all associated building trades.
Strip-out, demolition, general labouring, deliveries and all hands-on site work.
Restoring the pub garden, outdoor seating area and the approach from the High Street.
Legal, financial, architectural, surveying and hospitality industry expertise.
Experience in running pubs, bars or restaurants — helping shape the operational model and opening plans.
Keeping the project organised behind the scenes — scheduling, correspondence, data and logistics.
Volunteering is just one way to help. You can also donate to the Crowdfunder or register a pledge for our upcoming community share offer.