Tribute to volunteers

CERTIFICATES of thanks were presented to volunteer staff in Hailsham on Wednesday, in recognition of the valuable time they give to their community.

As part of national Volunteers Week, consultants at Hailsham Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and Hailsham Independent Mediation Service were thanked for the work they do.

The mediation service helps feuding neighbours to resolve their disputes. It has been praised by the police for sorting out matters that may otherwise have become serious problems.

After a recent funding increase, the Hailsham Independent Mediation Service now offers its services to Wealden at large.

Pauline Townsend, who runs the service, said: 'The CAB and the mediation service would like to say a big thank you to all their volunteers, past and present.'

The CAB employs 35 volunteers, a number of whom are trained advisers. Each volunteer gives a minimum of six hours a week, and some give many more. The mediation service employs a total of 13 volunteers, with six more on the way.

Any readers interested joining a CAB or mediation service training course should contact Pauline Townsend on 01323 442781.