HUNDREDS of volunteers helping to keep Wiltshire running are being celebrated this week.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, Wiltshire Council has thanked the people who quietly give up their time to support communities across the county, often behind the scenes.

Whether helping vulnerable residents, running groups or supporting sporting activities, volunteers are described as the backbone of many community services.

One of the biggest volunteer efforts can be found in Wiltshire’s libraries, where 787 people help keep services running in roles ranging from customer support to community activities.

Volunteers are also helping maintain the county’s public rights of way network, keeping footpaths open and accessible, while school governors continue to play a key role in shaping education across Wiltshire.

Support for unpaid carers is another area powered by volunteers. Through Carers Together Wiltshire – commissioned by Wiltshire Council and the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board – volunteers help carers balance demanding responsibilities with their own wellbeing.

The council is also using the week to encourage more people to get involved, particularly in community sport and physical activity programmes, including cycling, walking sports and youth activities.

In Salisbury, more than 20 organisations will gather at Salisbury Library today (June 2) for a Volunteers’ Fair hosted by Wessex Community Action, giving residents the chance to discover opportunities to get involved locally.

The event comes as the council strengthens ties with the voluntary sector through a new Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Partnership Framework, aimed at improving collaboration between councils, charities and community groups.

Deputy leader of Wiltshire Council Cllr Mel Jacob said: “To every volunteer across Wiltshire, thank you. Your commitment, generosity and kindness make a real and lasting difference.

“Volunteers’ Week provides the ideal opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution that volunteers make across the county. People give their time to support others and improve their communities, and we are extremely grateful.”

Volunteers’ Week runs nationally to celebrate the contribution made by volunteers and encourage more people to get involved.