Help for Highclere

ADVISORY STATEMENT

'In response to Media and social enquiries it is confirmed that approximately 100 Living History Re-enactors and a number of Exhibitors withdrew support for HEROES at HIGHCLERE 2014 due to circumstances entirely beyond their control. Despite a willingness to work with this venue to resolve several practical issues and concerns, caused directly as a consequence of their failure to give a full and honest brief from the outset, the position became untenable when Highclere repeatedly refused to issue a statement to correct serious misinformation which they knew was being circulated about the re-enactors contracted involvement with them. That involvement was in place for 3 years during which time Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey TV location) was provided with regular VOLUNTARY support for their own VIP/ Media events. The re-enactors have been obliged to issue this statement and wish to make it clear that they have absolutely no desire or need to be associated with any venue or organisation, however prestigious they think they may be, that considers it acceptable and ethical practice to exploit the services of dedicated volunteers.

As volunteers we do not wish to involve ourselves in politics, hidden agenda's and posturing by ill informed event organisers.

We have worked hard to build a good reputation and we enjoy working with a core group of professional organisations. We will not allow our ethos and standards to be compromised through the blatant abuse of our goodwill, loyalty and commitment by the Heroes at Highclere organisers. Posted for and on behalf of representatives of the volunteers.

Jardine Arlington, 2014 and updated 2015

Our ethos: Service before Self