A SPECIAL day was held to thank volunteers at St Helena Hospice for all their hard work.

More than 150 people who give up their time to provide help and support to the life limited.

Among them were ten recognised for 30 years of voluntary service to the Colchester hospice.

The event was held on Wednesday at Colchester town hall.

Among the roles carried out include shop assistants, gardeners, delivery drivers, complementary therapists, online support, receptionists, laundry helpers and more.

Awards were also given, by Chief Executive of St Helena Hospice Mark Jarman-Howe and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Peter Vergo, to volunteers who have been serving for 25, 21, ten, seven and three years.

Following the food and speeches came high tea and 1940s themed music.

Volunteer officer Mandy Fox said, “We are really pleased with the amount of volunteers who have attended and hope that everyone had a fantastic day.”

Mr Jarman-Howe said “It was a real success.

“It was great to see so many volunteers from across the organisation and to be able to thank them for everything they contribute to the hospice.

“The value of volunteers is priceless and without the time and effort they give we would be unable to provide the invaluable care and support to our patients.”

St Helena Hospice currently has a number of volunteer vacancies which can be found on their website www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/volunteer

The ten recognised for 30 years service were: Geraldine Parker, Carol Drage, Dorothy Hewitt, Rita Pincombe, Dianne Couch, Jill Jarvis, Elizabeth Cooke, Pat Kitching, Beryl Hutley and Pat Nicholls