HUNDREDS of volunteers are being sought to boost vital charitable groups and organisations working in the Test Valley.

Test Valley Community Services (TVCS) recruits a network of thousands of voluntary workers giving up their time to help some of the region's most vulnerable people.

Now they are launching two open days to sign up more people eager to dedicate their spare to to make a difference in their communities.

The Volunteer Recruitment Days, in both Romsey and Andover, are being hosted to mark National Volunteers Week, highlighting the social, economic and emotional impact volunteers have on local services.

Groups from across the country will be gearing up to show how vital and valued they are in battling dwindling resources during widespread Government cuts.

TVCS is the go-between for thousands of volunteers supporting 600 groups ranging from youth services to the elderly.

Some of them are setting up stands at the drop-in session to tell visitors about roles and placements available.

TVCS chief executive Terry Bishop said the organisation is seeking to sign up 150 new recruits within a year and added: "Volunteers are the lifeblood of the community and charity sector. A high proportion of groups wouldn't exist if it wasn't for their hard work."

"This is a prime time for people to come along, meet some of the groups in your local area and talk to them about what they are looking for and what you can offer."

Volunteering was traditionally popular among the retired.

But Ms Bishop says increasing numbers of younger people are taking it up to boost their skills or to fill in gaps between employment.

She added that volunteers benefit from boosted confidence, social skills and a sense of wellbeing and added: "There is always something for everyone and it is an opportunity to see services they were unaware of that could help their families."

Sarah Davis, project manager for Age Concern Romsey, which works with TVCS said: "Our volunteers do a fantastic job and without them would be unable to operate.

"Volunteering is a wonderful thing and it makes you feel a part of the community."

The sessions take place in on Monday, June 8, in Romsey Town Hall and Thursday, June 11, in Rendezvous in Andover.

Doors open from 10am-1pm and no appointment is necessary.

Groups attending include Open Site, the RNLI and Hilliers Gardens.

Charity exhibition spaces are fully booked, but any organisation wanting to display posters, leaflets and other advertising material should contact 01264 362600 or email tessa.makepeace@tvcs.org.uk TVCS also holds regular networking events and workshops.

Contact 01264 362600 or 01794 519998 for more information.