VOLUNTEERS across the district are being celebrated.

A host of activities is taking place to recognise the unpaid efforts of hundreds of people.

Events are being staged to coincide with national Volunteers' Week, which begins on Monday (June 3).

At Airedale Hospital, activities will include a coffee morning and information stands.

Around 200 registered volunteers work at the site, in over 20 wards and departments.

Also, volunteers serve in the Friends of Airedale shops and help vulnerable patients.

Gurmit Jauhal, the hospital's voluntary services manager, says: "Our volunteers are simply amazing.

"We value and appreciate the fantastic support they give to patients, staff and visitors.

"They make such a positive difference to people’s lives and are an integral part of our hospital team."

Tribute is also paid by Foluke Ajayi, chief executive officer of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

She says: "I’d like to thank our wonderful volunteers who provide services across many areas of the trust. We are incredibly grateful for their hard work and dedication."

Shirley Moorhouse has been a volunteer at the hospital for over two decades, and currently helps three times a week in the haematology and oncology day unit.

She says: "I have done several different roles over the years and enjoyed each one of them. I love helping the staff and patients."

And Allan Biggs, who helps in the emergency department, says: "Every shift is different and exciting, and I really enjoy meeting and supporting people in any way I can."

Anyone interested in volunteering at the hospital should contact the voluntary services department on 01535 295316 or email gurmit.jauhal@nhs.net

More than 200 volunteers from across Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust services are coming together next Thursday (June 6) for a celebratory afternoon tea, at the Mercure Bradford Bankfield Hotel in Bingley.

Catherine Jowitt, the care trust's head of charity and volunteering, says: "We are so grateful to all our amazing volunteers for everything that they do.

"Volunteers’ Week gives us an opportunity to bring everyone together to say a huge 'thank you' and to celebrate the positive impact that volunteers have on the people who use our services."

The volunteers will be joined at the celebration by the care trust’s chief executive, Therese Patten, trust chair Dr Linda Patterson and Anna Dixon, who chairs the national charity Helpforce.

Volunteering opportunities at the care trust range from supporting people in the community with wellbeing activities and walks, to helping new mums in baby clinics.

For further details, visit bdct.nhs.uk/get-involved/volunteering

Age UK in Keighley is also spotlighting the work of its volunteers, and appealing for more people to come forward.

Taster sessions are being held at the charity's Cavendish Street shop on Wednesday (June 5) for anyone interested in helping out.

Would-be recruits will be given the chance to meet the team and try different tasks, from managing stock donations to serving customers.

Shop manager, Denise Roberts, says: "Volunteers are the backbone of our shop. Every hour that they contribute makes a huge difference and helps Age UK raise much-needed funds for its work supporting older people.

"We are always looking for new people to help out and join our friendly team. We have a range of roles available and can offer flexible opportunities in order to fit around busy lives.

"Volunteering in an Age UK shop is open to everyone over the age of 18, with no previous experience required."

For further information, visit ageuk.org.uk/volunteer