A SOMERSET charity is marking this year’s National Volunteers’ Week to recognise the work carried out by residents across the county.

The County Gazette has spoken to Somerset Spark and to some volunteers to understand what’s behind their daily work and efforts.

Lorraine Warren and Donna Hibbert are two of many volunteers who decided to help their communities. Lorraine and Donna both volunteer at Staplegrove Cricket Club and together they run the youth side of Staplegrove Cricket Club.

With youngsters from the ages of four up to under 19 side, they are busy most days and evenings in the summer organising training, fixtures, and the popular ECB All-Stars programme.

They are both passionate that all children should have the opportunity to play, not just those that are the best, and rotate squads accordingly to integrate all.

Lorraine said: “I love cricket and I want all children to have an opportunity to love it too. Seeing proud faces when they master a technique brings an outstanding emotion to me as a volunteer coach.

“I would encourage everyone to volunteer. There’s always time even when you think there isn’t. I’m a single mum of three, work full time, training for marathons, fundraising, and do cricket four to five times a week.”

For more information visit https://staplegrove.play-cricket.com/ and Youth Club Volunteers | The Balsam Centre