VOLUNTEERS at the Skipton centre of Cancer Support Yorkshire were recognised at a special event during last week’s national volunteering week.

The centre, in Otley Street, which is also celebrating its fifth anniversary, has 33 volunteers, including four who have been volunteering at the centre since it opened five years ago. It is now looking to develop an additional 'friends' group of volunteers who will hold events in their own areas.

Centre Manager, Debi Hawkins said: “Our volunteers play a vital role in helping us inform, support and connect people affected by cancer from across Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale. They take on a variety of roles including meet and greet at the centre, driving people from home to appointments, counselling, and beauty and holistic therapies.”

She added: “They give their time and skills generously and with a real passion and commitment.”

The centre is also looking to recruit new volunteers as part of its ‘Friends of Cancer Support Yorkshire - Skipton Centre” with people raising funds and awareness in their own areas.

Debi said: “We have been here for five years now and have supported around 1000 people affected by a cancer diagnosis, be it their own, or that of a family member or friend. We are a local independent charity, not affiliated to any national charity, and as such if we stand a chance of being here for another five years and beyond, we really need to keep fundraising.”

It is hoped the new group of volunteers will set about holding fundraising events, such as coffee mornings and jumble sales and also work with the charity’s community engagement officer, Helen Gatiss on larger events. To find out more,contact the Centre on 01756 228088 or email d.hawkins@csyorkshire.org.uk