East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust held a celebration event attended by more than 150 volunteers, 32 presented with certificates for 10 years of service, six for 20 years and one for 30 years.

There are around 1,000 registered volunteers at the trusts' three hospitals, who help out for a minimum of four hours a week.

Trust chairman Irene Dibben said, "We are extremely grateful for the work undertaken by so many volunteers in our hospitals. They all share one common thing, they give the precise gift of time."
Beryl Russell a DGH volunteer, said, "I really enjoy my time as a hospital volunteer. It is a very rewarding experience.

"There are so many people who give up their time to work in many different areas of the hospital and it is nice to receive thanks and recognition for our work. I would encourage others to become volunteers.

"It is good to be able to give something back and serve your local community."

For information on becoming a volunteer in Eastbourne, call 417400, extension 4880. (C)