FROM magistrates to school governors, special constables to parish councillors – these are all roles filled by volunteers and Cornwall needs more of them.

To highlight the need for people to get involved and give their time, the first Civic Volunteering Week has been organised for October 11 to 17.

It aims to open people's eyes to the benefits of volunteering for the community and the personal satisfaction that can be gained by doing it.

The initiative has been organised by Volunteer Cornwall and funded by Take Part Cornwall.

Andy Brelsford, manager at Volunteer Cornwall, said: "Civic volunteering roles are those which have a semi-official basis in our community but are carried out by volunteers.

"Given the Government's focus on the big society, we wanted to emphasise how important these roles are and invite people to come and find out more.

Eligibility

"All of the four civic volunteering roles are subject to their own eligibility criteria and recruitment processes. The involvement of volunteer centres will make this process easier to navigate for people."

Volunteer Cornwall has commissioned a special DVD which follows four Cornish residents, who also happen to be civic volunteers, and can be viewed on its website.

Each volunteer centre is also running themed displays and staff are available to explain more about the civic opportunities available locally.

One of those featured in the DVD is Martyn Alvey, who volunteers as a parish councillor in Kea and is its current chairman. "I get a lot out of my civic volunteering," he said. "It gives me a chance to get involved in the local community and give something back. Helping to secure funding for a children's playground locally was a real highlight for me."

To find out more about civic or other volunteering opportunities contact Volunteer Cornwall on 01872 265308 or visit www.volunteercornwall.org.uk