Bromyard'S public-spirited nature is being put to the test with an appeal to keep a number of community projects alive.

A variety of local schemes rely entirely on volunteers to keep going and desperately need help to survive.

So the Bromyard and District Volunteer Bureau has made an appeal for more recruits.

"Listening, talking, gardening, baking, caring, driving, painting, computing, writing - if you can do any of these you have a valuable skill and we need you," said co-ordinator Cath Eburne.

"Volunteering has lots of benefits - it can help you make more friends, stay fit or give you the personal satisfaction of knowing that you are helping someone in your local community."

Projects in need of help at the moment include a befriending scheme for elderly folk, a club to support people with Alzheimer's disease and a Bromyard youth centre.

"You can be any age or offer any amount of time - from an hour to as much as you like," added Cath.

The bureau pays all travelling expenses. To find out more telephone 01885 482422.