VOLUNTEERS who work with the Countess of Chester Hospital have been highlighted for their efforts as part of Volunteers' Week.

The week is an annual celebration of the contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK.

Lesley Woodhead, head of fundraising at The Countess of Chester Hospital, said: "We are a small team of fundraisers who rely on our volunteers to help us raise our funds.

"Whether they are office regulars, committee members, event volunteers or those organising their own events they have played a major part in making a difference to their local hospital."

Volunteers have helped in all kinds of activities from bag packs and street collections, to duck selling and cake sales.

Staff from MBNA and M&S Bank have supported the Duck Race with their time and helped to raise money by selling baby ducks, while there has been support with other events from Lloyds Bank and Urenco staff, who also are able to match-fund their activities.

Younger people are also an important part of volunteering; Guides have bag packed, NCIS students have fundraised, Duke of Edinborough Awards students have undertaken office placements and helped at the Chester Half Marathon.

Lesley added: "I am asked what makes a good volunteer and there is no one answer to the question.

"We are looking for people that want to learn new things that are interested in the world around them and have time to give. We have a great team of volunteers in fundraising and through this page I want to thank them for all that they have done – and for all that they will continue to do!"

To volunteer and support The Countess Charity, please call the fundraising office on 01244 366240 or email emma.boylan1@nhs.net.