Industry News

Volunteers who help run community events and cultural activities across County Durham are being thanked for their hard work and commitment.

Durham County Council is marking Volunteers’ Week, which runs from 2 to 8 June, by hosting a series of celebration events recognising the thousands of volunteers across the county and the essential contribution they make.

The events have included walking and running events, a picnic and buffet, and an event at Locomotion in Shildon.

Cllr Lyndsey Fox, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “Across the county, thousands of volunteers give up their time on a regular basis to help run cultural events and activities and work on projects which support the environment, as well as welcoming visitors to the county at our festivals and events.

“We are using Volunteers’ Week to say thank you for the hours of time and effort our volunteers have given. They help us run some fantastic cultural events that enhance community wellbeing, as well as attracting visitors to the county and supporting the economy.”

As part of Volunteers’ Week, the council has also launched its recruitment of volunteers for Lumiere, the UK’s light art biennial, which runs from Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 November.

Volunteers would need to be available for at least one four-hour shift on one of the evenings, helping visitors and being a friendly face during the event.

Lynne Heasman has volunteered at Lumiere for a number of years.

She said: “It’s a privilege to be involved in such an exciting and popular arts event and volunteering gets you involved right into the heart of it; I have even had my image projected onto the cathedral as part of an installation.

“I have always felt proud to set out on a shift in our beautiful city with other volunteers, many of whom return for every Lumiere. I’ve enjoyed assisting people to get the most out of the light installations and it’s really satisfying to know I’ve contributed to someone’s enjoyment. I have met so many interesting people from artists to visitors to all those involved in running such an incredible event and enjoyed every question and conversation. 

“Being involved with Lumiere I feel valued and appreciated, especially by the Volunteer Durham team who take the utmost care of us and ensure that we enjoy the festival as much the visitors – probably even more so. Volunteering at Lumiere is a lot of fun, very rewarding and I can’t think of a better way to experience the festival.”

Gillian Reader, director of MGL Group, which is sponsoring Lumiere Volunteers, said: “MGL Group is delighted to sponsor the Lumiere Volunteers scheme, which provides a meaningful and exciting way for anyone to be a part of this iconic event.

“As a family business deeply rooted in Durham, MGL Group is proud to continue our support of Lumiere. We believe in fostering a vibrant community, and sponsoring this event goes beyond celebrating art and culture. It supports our region’s vitality and drives positive economic impact. We’re honoured to be part of something that brings joy to residents and visitors.” 

Lumiere is created and produced by Artichoke, commissioned by the council, and supported by Arts Council England.

For more information about how to apply to volunteer at Lumiere, as well as explore other volunteering opportunities in the county, visit www.durham.gov.uk/volunteering