A new charity initiative has been given the seal of approval by MEP for the eastern region, Richard Howitt.

Mr Howitt was in Thetford on Friday to support a call by St Nicholas Hospice for local volunteers for a new scheme to help people with life-shortening illnesses.

The Hospice Neighbours scheme asks for people to come forward to help people with everyday tasks, from dog walking to picking up a prescription, when they are too ill to do it themselves.

Mr Howitt said: “The impact a volunteer can make in helping a friend, neighbour or community just can’t be exaggerated.

“The simplest of tasks such as helping to walk a dog or pick up a prescription can make such a big difference

“And the impact for the life of the volunteers themselves can be enriching too.

“That is why I was a big supporter of the European Year of Volunteering which highlighted the contribution volunteers make in all European countries last year and I really urge Thetford residents to come forward to help St Nicholas Hospice Care’s excellent scheme.

“The scheme has already taken off successfully in Haverhill, Stanton, Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket and Sudbury since last year and I look forward to its success in Thetford.”

The hospice hopes to recruit a team of Hospice Neighbours volunteers from the Thetford area. Full training will be provided.

Hospice Neighbours co-ordinator Kay Newman will be at the charity’s Thetford shop, at 6 Bridge Street, on February 2 from 10am to 4pm; February 4 from 10.30am to 3pm; February 10 from 10am to 4pm; and February 11 from 10.30am to 3pm where she will be able to talk about the scheme to potential volunteers and users.