Published: Monday, 22nd June, 2009 3:00pm

Giving something back to volunteers

THANK YOU: Mayor Craig Fennell with volunteers at Sunrise

THE dedication and hard work of volunteers was celebrated as part of the 25th anniversary of Volunteers" Week.

The nationally celebrated week, which ran from Monday to Sunday last week, raises the profile of the millions of volunteers who contribute to their communities, while inspiring others.

Sunrise of Bagshot in London Road worked with Age Concern Surrey Heath (ACSH) and Volunteer Services Surrey Heath (VSSH) to hold an awards ceremony on Thursday last week.

Certificates were presented to nine volunteers who work with the Age Concern Lunch Club one day a week by the new Mayor of Surrey Heath Craig Fennell, in one of his first official engagements.

Tina Burden, VSSH"s volunteer centre manager, said: 'We wanted to reward the Age Concern volunteers for their hard work and when Sunrise offered to help with the venue and afternoon tea, we decided it would be a lovely way to mark the occasion.'

The volunteers give their time through various activities including the Wednesday Lunch Club.

ACSH organises many events across the Surrey Heath borough including a tearoom in Camberley town centre and a number of lunch clubs as well as a visiting and befriending service.

Debra Freeman-Thorpe, director of community relations at Sunrise of Bagshot, said: 'They are doing a fabulous job and it was a pleasure to host such an event and for everyone to have enjoyed themselves so much.

'We held the event because we want to get more involved with the community. I think the afternoon tea was particularly popular.'

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact VSSH on 01276 on 01276 707585.

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