Volunteering has been chosen as the central theme of Councillor Cross’s civic year, with the Chair pledging to celebrate and promote the people and organisations who give their time to support others. As part of this commitment, Councillor Cross has selected Wymondham Heritage Museum as her chosen charity for the year.

Run by the Wymondham Heritage Society, the museum tells the story of Wymondham, its people, history and events, and relies heavily on volunteers to keep its doors open.

Councillor Cross said:

I have chosen Wymondham Heritage Museum to be my charity for the forthcoming year. Without over 100 active volunteers either acting as stewards to greet visitors, take admission payments, sell shop items and answer questions, or in the tearoom serving drinks and light refreshments, this important resource simply would not function. Over the last four years, I’ve seen visitor numbers grow, drawn by the delicious homemade cakes and cosy atmosphere. If you’ve not tried Edna’s fruitcake or one of Val’s cheese scones you are missing out!”

Every penny raised by the museum goes back into the museum, updating the exhibits, supporting educational visits, putting on events and keeping on top of the maintenance, ensuring it is a viable and much loved attraction for visitors and residents alike for years to come.

Throughout her year in office, Councillor Cross will also lead ‘The Year of the Volunteer – a tour of communities in action’, visiting volunteer groups and community organisations across South Norfolk. Councillors from across the district will nominate volunteer groups in their wards for the Chair to visit, helping to shine a light on the wide range of volunteering opportunities and the positive impact volunteers have in local communities.

Councillor Cross added: “National Volunteers’ Week is a chance to say thank you to everyone who gives their time to help others. Volunteers are at the heart of our communities and so many organisations simply could not function without them.

“I’m looking forward to meeting volunteers from across South Norfolk during the coming year, to thank them for giving up their time and to celebrate the incredible work they do every day.”

National Volunteers’ Week is an annual UK-wide campaign celebrating the contribution millions of volunteers make across the country.