As your readers may know, this year is UN International Year of Volunteers, and 120 countries from around the world, from Madagascar, Nigeria to Japan, have been celebrating the contribution that volunteers make, and encouraging more people to get involved.

It is only fitting, as this special year draws to a close, that we thank everyone here in England who gives their time to support others or improve the environment. The International Year of Volunteers team has produced a special 'thank you' greetings card, which groups and organisations can order, free of charge, and send to their volunteers.

While the focus of this special year may have been global, we have to remember that it is each individual volunteer who makes a difference - let's get them our thanks.

Readers who would like to order cards for their volunteers should visit www.iyv2001england.org (whilst stocks last). Thank you.

Ruth Johnson, IYV2001 Co-ordinator England.