Volunteers’ Week is celebrated every June across the UK, and this year marks 40 years of recognising the amazing people who give their time to help others. It’s a chance to say thank you and shine a light on how volunteering brings people together and makes great things happen in communities like Market Drayton.
To celebrate, I spent a day at the Festival Drayton Centre meeting the volunteers who keep it running — and what a day it was. From the moment I walked in, the welcoming, lively atmosphere was impossible to miss. The Centre is more than a venue — it’s a place where people truly feel at home, where every visitor is greeted with a smile, and many stay for years as part of the volunteer family.
The Centre has around 80 active volunteers supporting everything from the coffee shop and bar to technical roles and front of house. Everyone I spoke to had their own reason for getting involved, but what they shared was a genuine pride in what the Centre offers — and the friendships they’ve found here.
From Apprentice to Volunteer Leader
Robyn, the Volunteer Co-ordinator, shared her inspiring story. She started as an apprentice in 2012 and worked her way up to Centre Manager. After maternity leave, she returned to this new role and absolutely loves it. “I work alongside the most committed people — the volunteers are the reason the Centre runs as well as it does,” she told me.
Making Connections — and Memories
Gill volunteers in the café and front of house and described the close bonds formed among volunteers. “We’ve become friends. We go out for birthdays, meet up for a drink once a week, even go on holiday together. When I retired, I knew I wanted to be here. It’s like an extended family.”
Dave, a regular in the coffee shop and at events, moved to Market Drayton just over three years ago. He said volunteering was a brilliant way to meet people and get involved. “I dress up for themed events — James Bond, Batman, even a dinosaur! The regulars expect it now. I love the energy here — it’s fun, friendly, and really welcoming.”
Why People Love Market Drayton
Many volunteers told me why Market Drayton is such a special place to live and give their time. Clare, who found volunteering helped her through a difficult time after losing her mum, said, “It’s a happy, supportive environment — Market Drayton feels like home.” Brenda, who started volunteering after her husband passed away, shared, “This town was so good to us. I wanted to give something back.”
Others highlighted the sense of community and the town’s friendly spirit. Vanessa moved here recently and said, “I just wanted to get out once a week and meet people. This was perfect — Market Drayton is warm and welcoming, and the Centre reflects that.”
Helen, who volunteers in the café and gardening group, added, “Volunteering here connects you to everything going on in town. It’s flexible, fun, and Market Drayton can be really proud to have a place like this.”
Finding Purpose and Positivity
Volunteering has been a lifeline for many. Clare told me, “I felt stuck at home after losing my mum, but coming here changed everything. No stress, just kindness.” Brenda found new purpose: “Helping in the kitchen has brought me joy and meaning again.”
Lots to Do, and Always Something New
There’s a wide range of roles available. Helen explained the gardening group’s work: “We tidy the front, do maintenance, plant, paint murals, and keep the Centre looking fresh. It’s hands-on and brings people together.”
Jackie volunteers in several roles and said, “I wasn’t sure at first, but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. We have a great mix of people, and I even come in on my day off!”
A Welcoming Place for Everyone
The Centre is a friendly space for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. Alison, a retired teacher, said, “You’re the first person visitors see when they walk in. Making them feel welcome is important. I love meeting new people.”
Trish, who also volunteers, said, “It’s sociable and friendly — I’ve made so many friends here.” And Carol, a retired forensic professional, summed it up perfectly: “I couldn’t just stop working, so I came here. Now I’ve got a whole new circle of friends.”
Looking to the Future
Malcolm, the Centre’s Vice Chair, gave me a glimpse of the future. “We’ve updated heating, toilets, installed solar panels and improved WiFi. Next, we’re focusing on accessibility, becoming more eco-friendly, and family-friendly events for younger people to enjoy. Volunteers are absolutely essential to all of this.”
Come and See for Yourself
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this is your sign to give it a try. As Helen said, “Volunteering here helps you feel part of something — it connects you to everything happening in town. Market Drayton is a wonderful place to live and volunteer.”
Volunteering at the Festival Drayton Centre isn’t just about giving time — it’s about becoming part of a community that cares, supports each other, and makes Market Drayton an even better place to be.
Volunteer with Us
In addition to the amazing opportunities at the Festival Drayton Centre, we’re also looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the team at Make it Market Drayton. Your help will enable us to continue delivering vibrant community events that celebrate everything great about Market Drayton. Whether you enjoy crafts, playing games with visitors, assisting with refreshments, or lending a hand with a variety of tasks, there’s a role for you.
If you’d like to get involved and help showcase Market Drayton as the welcoming town it is, please fill in our enquiry form to let us know how you can help: https://makeitmarketdrayton.com/volunteering/.
We look forward to welcoming you to the team and working together to make Market Drayton shine!
