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Big Help Out

Monday 8 May 2023 was a national day of volunteering in which people were encouraged to volunteer in their local community as part of celebrations for King Charles III’s coronation. The aim was to bring communities together, encourage more people to volunteer and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation.

We were contacted by Thornbury Royal British Legion because their members would like to take part in this initiative and wanted to know where they could help out. We offered several suggestions, but they chose the Rudgeway Donkey Sanctuary, especially once they discovered that their Treasurer Mick was a volunteer there already.

Volunteers painting at Donkey Sanctuary.
Royal British Legion volunteers painting at the Rudgeway Donkey Sanctuary

Larry Cauchi, Chair of the Legion branch, said “We had a great day helping Jean out at the donkey sanctuary, getting involved in painting, fencing, grooming and even celebrating a donkey birthday.”

Eleven volunteers from the Legion turned up to help and achieved a good amount in 3 hours. Some have since gone back to help complete work they started but didn’t finish on the day.

Donkeys at the Sanctuary.

News & information

Tesco Stronger Starts award

We’re in the running for one. Please cast your vote in favour at the Thornbury store.

Team building

Two recent examples of employers supporting volunteering by staff in the local community are described.

Summer opening hours

As usual, we shall be open only two days a week during high summer.

Summer Award Lunch

Our annual awards event was a great success.

Alan Hudson award

This year goes to the Over 60s Tearoom.

Clare Fardell award

Presented to two very deserving young people.

Annual report

Our annual report for 2023-24 is now available.

Spring sale

Our Spring Sale on 27 April raised more than £250 for Centre funds.

Sources of Help booklet

Our invaluable guide to organisations that can help you in need is available online.

Discover your perfect volunteering opportunity

Contribute your time and skills to the local community.

Social media

We post details of new volunteering opportunities on and local groups.

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Thornbury Volunteer Centre is a registered charity, number 1180775. The Town Hall, 35 High Street, Thornbury, BS35 2AR. Tel: 01454 413392. Hours: Mon-Fri 10:30-12.00. This site © Thornbury Volunteer Centre. Site design by Michael Quinion. Page last updated 16 June 2023.