The team at Huntingdon Volunteer Centre (HVC) received a very special visitor this week to celebrate National Volunteers Week.

Karl Brockett, the new Mayor of Huntingdon, paid a visit to the HVC Maple Centre office in Huntingdon, to take a look at the hard work that volunteers do in the community.

His visit coincided with National Volunteers Week, which has been celebrated annually on the first Monday in June for 40 years now.

The week aims to inspire people to take up a volunteering role in their local community.

Taking a look at the role HVC', and its Community Car Scheme, plays in the community, Cllr Brockett said: "Volunteers week is a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities.

"My visit is a great opportunity to learn about the work of the Community Car Scheme and I am looking forward to visiting their charity shop in Princes Street - which raises much needed funds."

Volunteers at HVC have also spoken about the joy they find in volunteering.

David Ford, a volunteer driver at HVC, said: "As well as helping others, volunteering improves your own wellbeing. 

"It can also help gain valuable new skills and experiences and boost self-confidence."

Tripti Woolf, Area Manager at HVC, added: "Without our volunteer drivers, administrators and trustees, we couldn't meet the ever-increasing need for our services from elderly, disabled and disadvantaged passengers for healthcare appointments and social needs.

"A big thank you goes to all of our volunteers for everything they do."

Anyone who is interested in volunteering with HVC, or taking part in the Community Car Schemes in Huntingdon, St Neots, St Ives, and Ramsey, should get in contact with Tripti.

Her telephone number is 01480 414766, and her email is: huntingdon@huntsvc.org.uk 

Recommended Reading: Spotlight on Volunteers: Huntingdonshire Volunteer Centre