VIDEO – MP in push to boost volunteering numbers
Harrogate and Knaresborough’s MP Andrew Jones has praised the “great work” done by volunteers throughout the community.
he MP has just completed his third annual “volunteer week”, which has seen him spend time helping volunteers at organisations across the Harrogate and Knaresborough area.
Mr Jones said: “I have been struck by the great work done by some magnificent organisations across our community and the warm welcome of the many volunteers I have met.”
Through the week he helped out at Follifoot Park Disabled Riders’ Group, Harrogate Hospital radio, Harrogate Neighbours, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Harrogate’s Park Run and Bilton Community Library.
On Thursday, he visited Knaresborough’s Scope shop to help out on the shop floor and sort donations.
Assistant shop manager Sally Gibbins said: “He stayed for two hours and really got stuck in. He rolled up his sleeves and helped sort out donations.”
The shop is always in need of donations to sell, Sally added, as well as more volunteers to man the shop.
The MP is also urging more people to give something back to their community by volunteering.
“Another point I want to get across is that volunteering is fun. You meet lots of different people, feel like you’re putting something back, learn while you are doing, and improve the lives of those less fortunate around us,” Mr Jones added.
When the week was over Mr Jones thanked the organisations he had visited.
“From every volunteer week I take away the warmth and generosity of the individuals in the organisations I visit.
“And I have learnt lots. For instance, the extent of the therapeutic nature of horse riding, the type of cases the Citizens Advice Bureau deal with and the challenges we may face within our society as our population ages.
“Our area would be poorer without their work and the volunteers told me their lives would be poorer without the volunteering they do. So I hope many more will draw inspiration and get involved in their local community,” he added.
More details are available on the Volunteer Week blog
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Weather for Harrogate
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 6 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 22 mph
Wind direction: North west
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Light showers
Temperature: 4 C to 12 C
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