A SERIES of events have been lined up to mark National Volunteers Week.

Volunteers are essential to the work of countless charities and other organisations. They are a valuable presence in many communities, making a difference in places as diverse as sports clubs, libraries, schools and hospitals.

Some 21.6 million people (42%) in the UK volunteer at least once a year.

Hundreds of events will be taking place across the country to mark National Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1-7.

The annual campaign, which was established in 1984, recognises the contribution volunteers make to our communities every day.

Community First’s volunteer service promotes hundreds of opportunities on behalf of charities and community groups and will be holding events in East Hampshire, Havant and Winchester during the week.

On June 6, it will have a stall in Petersfield market to showcase the range of volunteering opportunities on offer. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to encourage people to try volunteering and help people find out how through volunteering they can make a difference to a cause they are passionate about.

Community First’s advisers are also available every Wednesday from 11am-3pm in Petersfield library with information on all the opportunities available.

For more details, contact e-mail [email protected].