Tandridge volunteers gathered for our annual Cream Tea recently, held this year in St. Peter's Hall, Limpsfield.

Looking across the room I wondered, is there a commonly accepted mass noun for volunteers? A 'generosity' perhaps, or an 'altruism' - my neighbour ventured a 'collaboration' of volunteers. Volunteers' week, in June each year, is an opportunity to thank all those in our community whose gift of time and skills make a huge difference to the lives of others. From my seat I could see a Befriender, Driver, IT Trainer, Bookings Clerk, Trustee, Cook, Mentor, Theatre Steward, Database Designer, Treasurer, Home Visitor, Helpline Support and an Events Planner - an amazing, eclectic group. June of this year also marks five years since I came to the Volunteer Centre in Caterham.

"How many volunteers have you been involved with in that time?" asked someone recently. Truthfully, I have no idea. At the last count nearly 1,400 people had made enquiries and at least 450 have been appointed as volunteers. I thought it felt busy.

There are the volunteers at our Centre too, and those running and supporting the charities we help promote. My job means I have the privilege of spending time with the finest of people from our community.

For information about volunteering opportunities please ring me, Marion Piggott, at Volunteer Centre Caterham, 01883 344444, email:caterhamvc@ owen29.wanadoo.c o.uk, or visit our website: www.surreycommunity.info/ tvsc/. Alternatively, meet me every first Friday of the month in Warlingham Library, 10.30 -11.30 a.m.