A NEW government-backed organisation set up to encourage the over-50s to donate their skills and experience to the community now has hundreds of volunteering opportunities on its books for the Okehampton area.

The Experience Corps works in partnership with charities and organisations to match up volunteers with suitable groups.

Organiser Jo Winterburn said there was a wide variety of groups in the Okehampton area looking for help.

She said: ?Okehampton District Community Transport Group are looking for drivers who would be prepared to give a little time on a regular basis, and the use of their car to help those in need. Minibus drivers are also required ?and training is provided.?

Jo said Okehampton and District Citizens? Advice Bureau had a number of volunteering opportunities, including CAB advisors and administrative/office work for which training was also provided.

Other rewarding volunteer work is available for the Cinnamon Trust, which helps look after animals when their owners are ill. It may be a short or long term arrangement but requires commitment on a regular basis.

?Country Holidays for Inner City Kids provide free holidays for emotionally and financially disadvantaged children.

?CHICKS urgently need volunteers to support, encourage and befriend the children and make it a holiday to remember,? said Jo.

Volunteers need to be prepared to stay at the CHICKS centre near Milton Abbot. The holidays run from Thursday to Tuesday throughout the year.

Fresh Start in Okehampton are looking for individuals interested in teaching and training to become involved in their programme to help those over 16 with numeracy and literacy skills ?training is provided.

C-FAR at Highampton runs a life-changing programme for 18 to 24 year old male offenders at risk of offending again.

Jo said: ?They are looking for volunteers to become mentors and really help change lives.?

And anyone who enjoys the countryside and the outdoor life may like to contact the Parish Paths Partnership Scheme, a Countryside Commission initiative to improve public rights of way, including upgrading and re-opening paths by undertaking practical work such as vegetation clearance and stile repairs.

Anyone interested in finding out about volunteer work in the Okehampton area can call Jo Winterburn on 01647 61252 or 07786 934334 or e-mail