A CHARITY helping people who are blind or partially-sighted is appealing for volunteers to help set up a new branch for Ryedale.

Guide Dogs is looking for people interested in helping to run a Ryedale fundraising branch, to get involved in street collections, organise counter-top collection boxes and represent the charity at various shows and events throughout the year.

Volunteer coordinator Caroline Kirby said that training will be given to anyone who wants to get involved. She said: “At all times we offer regular and ongoing advice, support and training. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with good communication and team working skills who are able to coordinate a small group of people in their efforts to raise money.”

The team is looking for people living near Malton, Pickering, Helmsley or Kirkbymoorside to volunteer, and there are two key roles – a group organiser and a treasurer.

Caroline said: “Anyone who has good organisational skills and is enthusiastic and confident would fit in to these roles perfectly. They will be part of a team of volunteers who are making a real difference by helping visually-impaired people to enjoy the same independence and mobility as everyone else.”

The group organiser will run the branch and become the contact for the fundraising area, while coordinating fundraising events and running branch meetings.

The treasurer will be responsible for the income and expenditure records for the branch.

Anyone interested in joining the Ryedale fundraising branch of Guide Dogs should phone Caroline on 0845 372 7418 or email caroline.kirby@guidedogs.org.uk