The National Trust is experiencing a boom in its operations despite the recession as people in ever greater numbers seek unique and memorable experiences, Fiona Reynolds told the Trust’s AGM in Swindon on Saturday 7 November 2009.

Visitor numbers are up by almost 18 per cent on 2008 and membership has grown from around 3.65 million to almost 3.8 million over the last 12 months. The Trust’s catering and retail operations are also up by 22 per cent and 15 per cent respectively, and bookings at holiday cottages are eight per cent higher than last year.

'We have had an amazing year and people have come to us in droves,” said Fiona Reynolds, the Trust’s Director-General. “The vision of our Victorian founders, to provide space for calm, peace and tranquillity, is as relevant now, during a recession, as it has ever been.

'What has captured the public imagination has been the authentic experiences we offer. Those moments of peace enjoyed in beautiful surroundings, or spending time with friends and family at a woodland, give us something lasting and memorable that stands above the cheap thrill of the consumer world.'

Simon Jenkins, the Trust’s Chairman, added: 'At the heart of this is a confident and constructive spirit which, together with the support of our members, has ensured that the Trust is in good health and remains true to the causes of beauty, landscape, inspiration and heritage, for the benefit of the nation.'

Simon Jenkins also pointed to two major passions for his Chairmanship: bringing properties to life and improving the speed of the Trust’s decision making.

'The Trust is moving away from the ‘frozen moment in time’ approach to create a more dynamic and atmospheric space in which visitors can immerse themselves,” he said. “Work has begun in making this happen, but I believe that there is so much more we can do to bring all our properties to life.'

He added that the Trust’s responsiveness and ability to make decisions quickly will be improved by the thrust towards ‘localism’ now being planned. Through this, property and general managers are being given more authority, letting them get on with the job in hand. He concluded: 'We are determined to recognise and promote the uniqueness of each Trust property and its relationship with its local community.'

Other AGM information

Fiona Reynolds also highlighted the Trust’s successful campaign activities on food, which have helped millions of people re-discover the delights of growing and eating their own food. In February, the Trust announced a plan to open 1,000 new allotments or growing spaces for the public over the next three years.

'My underlying belief is that our work is only possible if we continue to inspire people to want to be part of our movement, to share in our passion for history and nature, and to help us to do wonderful things,' she said. 'Without their support we cannot hope to do this important work, and without their enjoyment and participation in our properties we would only be doing half our job.'

The AGM was also used to thank the Trust’s 55,000 volunteers for their tireless energy and support and highlight current appeals to save Seaton Delaval Hall (Northumberland), Khadambi Asalache’s house (London), Croome Court (Worcestershire) and fundraising for a new visitor centre at the Giant’s Causeway world heritage site (Northern Ireland).

The year has also seen progress on improvements and a new visitor centre for Stonehenge, an amazing gift from Historic House Hotels and the opening of Greenway, Agatha Christie’s summer home in Devon.