THE Dilke at Cinderford and Lydney and District hospitals are looking for volunteers for gardening, assisting patients and more general duties.

Prospective volunteers have been invited to a coffee morning or afternoon tea to meet the nursing staff and find out more about what is involved.

The first event is on Wednesday May 2 at Lydney and District Hospital between 2pm and 4pm. The coffee morning will be held at the Dilke Memorial Hospital between 10am and 12pm on Wednesday May 9.

Mandy Hampton, matron of Forest Community Hospitals, said: "There are so many ways volunteers can help. We have lots of opportunities that will suit interests and fit in with time availability. We are interested to hear from people who are willing to share their skills and experience."

Cllr Andrew Gravells, Gloucestershire County Council cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "Volunteers are a key part of the smooth running of any hospital and I hope that people come forward to give some of their spare time to their local community."

For more information telephone 01594 598115 or email [email protected]">[email protected]