LOCAL volunteer numbers have been increased, thanks to a two-day roadshow in the Thirsk area.

The Thirsk and Sowerby Volunteer Bureau celebrated the Year of the Volunteer by hiring a specially-adapted double-decker bus to get out into the district to find more recruits.

And after a busy time in Thirsk, Knayton and Topcliffe, they are now working their way through the list of potential new volunteers.

The bureau, which is part of the Thirsk Community Care Association, promotes volunteering for all, acting as a signposting agency to a wide range of voluntary opportunities.

"The two days were very useful, and hopefully we have gathered up some new recruits," said co-ordinator, Sue Lee.

"We have volunteering opportunities covering all manner of skills, and it doesn't matter if you have an hour a month or an hour a week to spare, every bit helps. Anyone can be a volunteer - we all have something special to offer."

Anyone wanting to become a volunteer should contact Sue on (01845) 523115.