Dozens of hard-working volunteers enjoyed a special tea party at South Bucks Hospice on Friday.

The hospice, based at Kingswood Park in High Wycombe, laid on tea, cakes, scones and sandwiches for around 70 volunteers.

The event was arranged to thank them for their services in helping patients with life-limiting conditions.

Michael Cole, volunteer co-ordinator, told the gathering: “The most important thing that you need to take away from this afternoon is that the hospice would not function without you.

“It is quite simple: if we did not have the wonderful support of the volunteers, and the families who support the volunteers, it would not happen.

“Thank you sincerely for everything you do for us and long may it continue.”

The hospice currently has just under 200 volunteers, performing a wide range of functions from receptionists to qualified counsellors, as well as retail shop workers, patient drivers and administrative support staff.

Xandra Morley, a former receptionist who has been an admin volunteer for the past two years at the hospice, said: “This is a lovely event and it’s so nice to meet all the other volunteers.”

Her motivation for volunteering is simple: “There’s an old saying about giving something back.

“I think being a volunteer is a very good way to do something for your community, and it’s enormously fulfilling.”

The hospice is still in need of further volunteers with all different types of skills and from all walks of life.

People of previous experience or those who want to start out are all welcome to contact us.

To see whether volunteering at South Bucks Hospice is for you, please contact Michael Cole at volunteers@sbhospice.org.uk.