In early June YMCA charity shops across the UK held their National Volunteering Week to raise awareness of the good work they do and to encourage newcomers.

Volunteers work offering tea and coffee to get people to understand what its all about and more people interested said Redcar branch manager Noreen Johnson.

And introducing their oldest member, 74 year old, Violet, Noreen told us that Mrs Johnson (no relation) has worked in five of their shops.

"Violet who has been caring for people most of her life, has worked with dimentia sufferers and foster children."

Noreen who started at the newly located shop in Redcar High street was there from the beginning and is proud of the hard work they do for the public as well as the work they do with trainees such as 19 year old, Charlotte Morris who was sent to them from TNG.

With a total of 10 volunteers and trainees who all work various shift patterns, there is still a need for more to join their team.

YMCA England Chief Executive, Ian Green, said: “Volunteers like Violet are the lifeblood of the YMCA. Without their work the YMCA’s role in helping young people would be so much more difficult.

"I know many of our volunteers not only give generously of their time but also in the process enjoy themselves, make new friends and really feel that they are contributing something to their local community.

"I know people lead busy lives but I hope during National Volunteering Week that more people will feel that they want to come forward and offer their time. If Violet at 74 years of age can still show how it is done, then I think we all can!”