AROUND 60 volunteers enjoyed tea and cakes at Ilminster Arts Centre on Sunday afternoon at a special party thrown for them by the trustees and staff.

The gathering arranged was by way of a ‘thank you’ to volunteers for all their hard work at the Arts Centre over the year.

The event was also an opportunity for volunteers working on set days to meet other volunteers that they don’t normally get the chance to see.

As a registered charity with no regular outside funding revenue, the Arts Centre is reliant on people giving up their time to help keep the facility open to visitors and volunteers perform a huge variety of roles – from organising exhibitions and concerts to helping serve customers in the busy craft shop and keeping the garden tidy.

One volunteer said: “I enjoy volunteering here because almost every week I get to meet new people, and over the years some have become firm friends – the free cup of coffee is very welcome too.”

Speaking at the event, trustee Tony Nares outlined the huge contribution made to the Arts Centre by its volunteer work force and paid tribute to the hard work of volunteers, saying the contribution was invaluable, and the support from the town was excellent.

The Arts Centre always welcomes new volunteers – if you are interested in joining the team, get in touch with the office on 01460 54973, or pop in to the Arts Centre to have a chat.