How did you start volunteering?
When I retired I came to an open day in 2000. My wife Kath said this would be an ideal job for me. I started volunteering almost straight away.
Which skills are useful at Bridewell?
Some skills are very useful, carpentry, horticulture, cooking and even blacksmithing.
Mine are varied and I help wherever I am required, be it vineyard work, other gardening, firewood preparation and many other odd jobs.
What qualities does a Bridewell volunteer need?
The main quality is to be able to get on with people, support staff, other volunteers and especially offering to help gardeners.
To be very understanding and of even temperament.
What do you find most rewarding about the role?
The most rewarding part is to see improvements in gardeners, especially those who have had bad experiences and mental health issues, seeing people move on to employment or volunteering.
It's also rewarding to meet with other volunteers.
I just love working at Bridewell and have never looked back or regretted joining such a worthwhile charitable organisation.
