VOLUNTEERS' week will be launched next Monday when Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Nicola Urquhart officially opens the Volunteer Bureau's photo exhibition in Twickenham.

The exhibition at the Civic Centre highlights the huge variety of volunteer activities carried out each week across the borough. It will be opened at 10.30am, then on public display for the rest of the week.

Photographs taken by local volunteers Andy Harris and Adrian Sumption, quotes and case studies of volunteers from local projects will be on display as well as information how people can get involved themselves.

Volunteer's Week is a national celebration to recognise and pay tribute to the invaluable work done by volunteers across the UK. In Richmond upon Thames over 14,000 people regularly volunteer and the Volunteer Bureau is marking the week with a series of events to celebrate their commitment and inspire more people to get involved with community projects.

To follow the launch event, the Volunteer Bureau is holding several roadshows across the borough in the shopping streets of Richmond, Twickenham and Teddington, distributing information about the wide range of opportunities available.

James Banks, the Volunteer Bureau co-ordinator said: "Without the support of volunteers many local charities and voluntary organisations would be unable to operate effectively. Volunteers week allows us to recognise their valuable contribution and inspire many more local people to give their time in the future."

If you would like to find out more, contact the Volunteer Bureau on 8255 8505, email volunteer@richmondcvs.org.uk or visit the website http://www.richmondvb.org.uk