DEDICATED volunteers at Worcestershire Royal Hospital have been applauded for their hard work.

A special afternoon tea was held for the hospital’s team of invaluable volunteers on Thursday, July 30.

The event was hosted by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust chairman Harry Turner, who thanked the team for their dedication.

“From working in the coffee shop, to ward duties, newspaper and confectionery rounds, volunteers provided an invaluable service,” he said.

“Our fantastic staff couldn’t deliver the quality care that they provide without you, and we appreciate all that you do for us. Thank you.”

There are more than 300 volunteers working at the Royal, including David Bower, who has been giving up his time to work on the hospital’s radio station Choice Radio for the past three years.

Mr Bower said he loved working on the volunteer-run station.

“I’ve met so many interesting people through doing this,” he said.

“One of my favourite jobs is going round the wards and talking to the patients, getting their song requests and chatting to them can bring real joy.”

Mayor of Worcester Cllr Roger Knight also dropped in to the event and applauded the volunteers.

"It's astonishing how much volunteers do here and you all do such fabulous work,” he said. “You're a really smiley bunch here and, as I always say, volunteers are the mortar that holds the bricks together.”

Cllr Knight was also given a tour of the Royal’s A&E, the newly-opened Oncology Centre and Meadow Birth Centre during his visit and said where he took the

“It was fascinating seeing the facilities here,” he said. “The new birthing unit in particular really is superb.

“It’s so calming and relaxed it has the feel of a five-star hotel.

“I have such a high regard for everyone doing a job here, you are all so smiley and welcoming, thank you for the important work you do.”

All hospital volunteers are subject to official background checks and are given full training.

Anyone interested in volunteering at the hospital can call 01905 733159.