To the Volunteers of Hereford Cathedral,

Every year, a week is devoted to giving thanks for and celebrating all that Volunteers do across the nation. National Volunteers Week this year takes place from Tuesday 1 June to Monday 7 June and though a physical gathering cannot be held at the cathedral to mark the occasion at this time, we would like to take the opportunity to show our thanks to all Volunteers who give their time, talents and dedication to Hereford Cathedral.

The last year has proved difficult and challenging for everybody and naturally our various areas of volunteering have had to be held in abeyance while we have worked through periods of distancing and isolation. Your patience and support has been much appreciated during this period.

We are now increasingly looking forward to welcoming you all back to take part in the various activities held here and it is important to remember that these activities rely so much on our excellent Volunteer teams. Some Volunteer teams have been working on duty in the small patches of time between lockdowns. Many areas, however, have had to remain closed off for a long period of time and it is true to say that those areas have been missed greatly by our own Volunteers and our visitors.

While it is unclear when a celebratory gathering could next be held for all of you, this is something on which we hope to work when such things are deemed safe to hold. In the meantime, we would very much like to thank each and every one of you for all that you do for Hereford Cathedral. Without the support of Volunteers, we would not be able to achieve many the great things we have achieved in the running of so many skilful activities.

As a community, it is important to look after and support one another and it is important to remember that we are all part of the cathedral family. If or when you return to duty as a Volunteer in any area of the cathedral, do please remember how valued you are – especially in this National Volunteers Week.

 

With all good wishes,

The Reverend Canon Andrew Piper

Acting Dean

Chris Milton

Chief Operating Officer

  

David Owen

Volunteers Liaison Officer

  

Peter Challenger

Visits and Volunteers Administrator