Who are these incredible people? They're often invisible but their work is obvious. They're unpaid but generate huge amounts of cash. Many seem to have superhuman levels of skills & expertise, and yet they all say they're just 'normal'. They may sound like magic elves from a fairy story but are actually volunteers in the Yorkshire Dales. If you go to an event this weekend, chances are that it will rely on an army of volunteers to happen.
Without them, so many aspects of rural life would collapse. They're the glue that hold together communities. It's thanks to so many willing volunteers that we have such great events, rich wildlife, and community services.
Here are just some examples of things volunteers do in the Dales. If you know of more or want to praise a particular volunteer, please add them in the comments.
They bake and run endless cake stalls, raising money for local charities whether it's for Yorkshire Air Ambulance, cubs, brownies, schools, church roofs, village halls...
They run essential mountain and cave services such as Cave Rescue Organisation and Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team, rescuing walkers, cavers and others when lost, hurt or stranded in the Dales.
They are the staff in countless libraries, information offices, and community hubs across the Dales. Organisations like Visit Sedbergh, Visit Settle, Visit Masham inform and welcome visitors.
They create and work in gardens, visitor attractions and in public spaces to keep everywhere looking good.
They clean, open and close churches and public buildings each day. They ring the church bells and welcome visitors.
They run important services such as the Little White Bus
They create and run events like Wensleydale Agricultural Show, Reeth Show, Malham Show, showcasing a wide range of talents and interests, bringing people together for enjoyment and entertainment.
They work with rangers and wildlife charities to look after our environment, help children to develop their interest in nature and showcase beautiful and important areas to visitors.
Thanks to everyone who contributes so much to our life in the Yorkshire Dales.