Volunteers in Cheshire West and Chester are set to enjoy a raft of free experiences this summer as a big ‘thank you’ for all their hard work.

The Summer of Appreciation is a project conceived and led by Storyhouse and delivered in partnership with Cheshire West Voluntary Action (CWVA).

The project, inspired by a similar initiative in Manchester, aims to celebrate the contribution of local volunteers, help them feel valued and give them opportunities to connect with those from other organisations across the region.

Six partner organisations are involved in the scheme which will invite qualifying volunteers to book free places on a range of exclusive experiences over the summer months.

They are: Storyhouse, Canal & River Trust, Chester Cathedral, Chester Zoo, English Heritage and RSPB Burton Mere.

The range of events and experiences includes special tours at Storyhouse, Chester Castle, Chester Zoo and Chester Cathedral; a river cruise from the historic Anderton Boat Lift and a guided walk at Burton Mere reserve.

Cheshire West Voluntary Action has been supporting the local community and championing the sector since 1914.

Summer of Appreciation was launched at CWVA’s network meeting last week, which was attended by volunteer managers from 17 different organisations and where partners introduced the project and outlined its aims.

Booking is now open and the project will go live during National Volunteer Week which this year takes place from 1-7 June. Volunteer experiences then take place from June until August.

The Summer of Appreciation programme is open to active volunteers with CWVA member organisations in Cheshire West and Chester area. Volunteers do not have to complete a minimum number of hours, and their organisation does not need to offer an experience itself.

Any volunteer who would like to know more should contact their volunteer manager or the CWVA.

Storyhouse Volunteer Manager Emma Savage said: “We’re really pleased to have brought together such an amazing group of partners for this collaborative project, recognising volunteers across Cheshire West and Chester and the incredible contributions they make.

“The Summer of Appreciation is a wonderful opportunity for organisations to thank volunteers not only within their own teams, but across the wider voluntary sector, by sharing unique experiences and creating opportunities for volunteers to connect, celebrate and feel truly valued.”

For more details visit www.storyhouse.com