by Michelle Horst
A host of voluntary groups are joining together next week for an event to highlight their diverse offering.
Supported by HEY Smile Foundation, East Riding Council and Active Communities, the Hornsea Organisations Together event on Sunday, April 13, aims to promote the variety of activities, support and resources available to residents of the area, as well as the benefits of volunteering.
Volunteers can receive professional training, helping them to develop their social skills and remain socially and physically active.
Michelle Barnes of HEY Smile Foundation said: “Hornsea is one of the most vibrant places. There’s so much to do. There’s no reason to be bored.”
In a recent survey by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, 90 per cent of volunteers said it gave them a sense of achievement, while 77 per cent felt an improvement in their mental health because of their charity work.
Representatives from local charities, voluntary organisations and services will be on hand at the event to offer advice on how to become involved. Visitors can also discover the support they provide to local communities, while looking to raise awareness. Organisers say the event will also give organisations the chance to network and build connections.
Funding for the event was made possible through a legacy donation from Joan Gales.
Joan, who died in December after a short illness, was a past president of Hornsea and District Lions Club and committee member at Floral Hall.
Michelle said: “Joan was a key part of so many organisations in Hornsea. This event is a perfect showcase for everything Hornsea has to offer, and a wonderful legacy for the lady herself.”
On the day, Hornsea regeneration group Let’s Go Hornsea will unveil designs to revitalise a popular walking route.
The Hornsea Viaduct project, which included a public consultation in 2022, is now in its final phase.
Constructed over Stream Dyke as part of the Hull and Hornsea branch line which opened in 1864, Hornsea Viaduct later became an embankment and remains an important route for schoolchildren and families accessing the town through an underpass, but antisocial behaviour and graffiti has blighted the landmark for several years.
Sources say that the path, popular with tourists, cyclists and hikers following the Hornsea Rail Trail, the eastern part of the Trans Pennine Trail, could be a key part of developing sustainable tourism and jobs in the town.
The scheme will promote the historic origins of the trail and feature artwork created by local schools.
Hornsea Organisations Together will take place at the Floral Hall on April 13 from 10.30am to 3pm.
More information is available via facebook.com/Letsgohornsea, or to book a place contact Michelle Barnes at HEY Smile Foundation on 07808 045248.