A children’s charity has issued an urgent appeal for new volunteers to help it continue its life-changing work.

Barnardo’s says it would be lost without its local helpers and it is looking to recruit in Otley, Guiseley and Horsforth.

The children’s charity says it desperately needs more volunteers to become part of existing fundraising groups, or to set up their own, and help raise much-needed cash to support vulnerable children and young people.

Last year, fundraising groups across the country raised £350,000 for Barnardo’s which was used to help local children who have been abused, who live in poverty or who have disabilities.

Amanda Warrent, community fundraiser for Yorkshire, said: “Our community fundraisers are a vital part of Barnardo’s. As well as raising money through running events they also raise awareness of the work we do. Put simply, we’d be lost without them.”

Community fundraising groups organise and run a diverse range of events and collections and support the charity’s appeals and campaign.

The charity says being part of a fundraising group offers an opportunity to meet new people, have fun and learn new skills, at the same time as making a difference to the lives of some of the most vulnerable children.

Contact Amanda Warrent at amanda.warrent@barnardos.org.uk or on (0113) 263 3252.