I would like to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers in south west England for their unwavering dedication and hard work.

For 365 days a year our 40,000 volunteers provide meals, transport services and companionship to older people across Britain; it is their dedication and compassion which allows older people to live fulfilled lives while staying independent in their homes for longer.

I would like to encourage more people to volunteer. Whether you can spare a few hours once a week or fortnight or can give a couple of days each month, we will have an opportunity for you; visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or call 0845 600 5885.

Sally Rivers, Royal Voluntary Service, Head of operations.