THE work of the army of volunteers who help at a North Yorkshire hospital will be celebrated on Friday.

Around 180 people from Harrogate District Hospital will be taking part in a tea party.

Local trust chairman Dr Albert Day will present long service awards, and among those taking part will be local Liberal-Democrat MP Phil Willis.

The aim of the tea party is to recognise the achievement and dedication of the many voluntary groups and individuals, as well as to praise them for their work during the past year.

And this year, the volunteers being presented with awards will receive a specially created new pin badge featuring the number of years they have served as a volunteer.

Voluntary service co-ordinator Mavis Clemmitt said: "The benefit that the trust derives from the support of our volunteers is immeasurable and we are continually indebted to them and the time and skills they provide.

"From helping with the range of duties undertaken by the WRVS, the great fundraising work by Harrogate Hospital and Community Friends, to Harrogate Hospital Radio and our volunteer drivers; every volunteer offers superb support that is much appreciated by patients and staff."

The minimum age to be a volunteer is 16 and volunteers come from all walks of life.

Dependant on the time each volunteer has to offer they are recruited to work in a specific area and help out anything from once a week to once a month.

Anyone interested in undertaking volunteer work at the trust should contact Mavis Clemmitt on (01423) 553014.