THE hard work of volunteers across the district will be celebrated next week as part of a national event.

Volunteer Week runs from June 1-7 and aims to encourage more people to get involved with giving up their time to help others.

David Ashworth from Theydon Bois has been volunteering for four years, helping prevent old people from falling over.

Working on a project called Freefall, the retired volunteer helps to minimise trip hazards in pensioners homes.

He has fitted hundreds of important pieces of equipment to prevent them from slipping, falling or tripping so they are able to stay in their home for as long as possible.

He said: "I love what I do and feel like I am actually making a difference."

Ricky Conrad, 21 from Loughton uses his skills on a 'Mow and Grow' project, gardening for a sheltered accommodation scheme and the elderly, as well as a conservation project at The Royal Gunpowder Mills.

Although Ricky has some communication difficulties, volunteer staff said he is a firm favourite among the many people he has helped.

Care Home Manager Anita Nisbet said: "Ricky is always extremely polite and friendly to everyone and nothing is too much trouble for him.

"He is always enthusiastic when asked about the allotment and the residents have remarked about how well mannered he is and how rare this is in this day and age."

For more information about volunteering opportunities in the district visit vaef.org.uk.