SWINDON'S New College is celebrating Volunteers Week, which started today.

Volunteers' Week is a UK-wide celebration of volunteering that takes place every June. Last year 110,000 volunteers were awarded thank-you certificates during the week.

Around 50 New College students have participated in the 2001-2002 Voluntary Service programme run by Julia Merloe, voluntary service co-ordinator at the college.

Students have also helped out in The Shop in Park South, Park Crew Club, Oxfam, Prin-cess Margaret Hospital, Age Concern and Abbeyfield, as well as local day nurseries and numerous schools including the Chalet School and Brimble Hill.

On average, New College students contributed 40 hours each to volunteering this past year. This translates into an average monetary value of £11,000, based on average student wages. This monetary value is in addition to the satisfaction achieved and friendship forged by all concerned.

Anyone with an interest should call Julia Merloe on Swindon 611470 extension 245.