There's a growing trend for people to begin volunteering before they retire fully - a sort of gentle slide from one period of their life to another. Although approximately 10% of volunteers are retired at the time they register with us, twice as many are over 55 and, like Peter, planning ahead.

"I believe the best time to plan my retirement," Peter told me last year, "is before my boss does!"

The humour masked his awkwardness – he later confessed to feelings of unease. New to volunteering Peter was unsure about what he wanted to do, or even if he really wanted to commit to anything.

"There's no pressure," I reassured him. "I'll simply tell you what is available and you can think about it. Take as long as you need." A complete change appeals to some, like the teacher who very definitely did not want to volunteer with children. Alternatively, craftsmen and specialists of all flavours want a role that uses their valuable skills.

For information about volunteering opportunities please ring me, Marion Piggott, at the Volunteer Centre Caterham, 01883 344444, email:caterhamvc@owen29 .wanadoo.co.uk, or visit our website: www.surreycommunity. info/tvsc/.

Finally, taking a leaf out of Peter's book I have been planning my own retirement since early summer. Within days of handing over to my successor in October I am resuming my studies, finishing the Honours degree I started years ago.

Yes, I will also be volunteering, how could I not? So cheerio from me. It has been a privilege to be part of Caterham's volunteering community this past five years.