MORE than 50 organisations have signed up for an event aimed at promoting a wide range of volunteering opportunities in the Darlington area.

The fourth annual Volunteering Fair takes place in the Dolphin Centre sports hall, in Darlington, between 10am and 3pm on Thursday, February 6.

Organised by Darlington Cares, it is described as a “speed dating” event for volunteering – linking a host of organisations with people looking to contribute their time to worthy causes.

Darlington Cares director Seth Pearson said: “At the beginning of a new year, people often want to make a commitment to give something back to their local community but aren’t always sure how to go about it.

“The beauty of this event is that it showcases a variety of agencies, covering all kinds of sectors, which are looking to benefit from the different skills and experience volunteers can bring.”

Organisations taking part include the RSPCA, Darlington Association on Disability, the Head of Steam railway museum, Firthmoor Community Centre, and Raby Castle.

Volunteering opportunities across the age range will be available.

Mr Pearson added: “Students can not only enrich their CVs through volunteering, but also broaden their life experience, make contacts, and build their experience.

“At the other end of the spectrum, people who have retired often want to use their spare time in a constructive way.

"Some like to continue using the skills they have developed during their careers, while others just want to do something completely different.

“There is strong evidence that volunteering not only benefits the local community but has a hugely positive impact on the health and well-being of those giving freely of their time, so please come on down as see what’s on offer.”

Last year’s event led to hundreds of new volunteers recruited and the aim is to build on that success.