VOLUNTEERS were presented with certificates for their hard work by an Ellesmere-based charity which provides holidays for the disabled and elderly in one of its canal boats or chalets.

The Lyneal Trust celebrated Volunteers Week with presentation of certificates by Chris Symes, chairman of the Trust at a reception held at the Lyneal Wharf followed by the formal opening of the refurbished meeting room which will be used to meet and greet those going on holiday.

Peter Walters, spokesman for the Trust, said: “The great satisfaction in being able to provide days out and holidays for so many different disabilities and the reaction and pleasure that they show is the high point in volunteering at Lyneal.

“We are always looking for more volunteers to match the increased demand on our facilities and therefore we welcome enquiries to volunteer with the Lyneal Trust.”

The Trust has approximately 45 volunteers who meet and greet visitors from all over the UK before they set off for their holiday on the Llangollen Canal.

Others will skipper and crew the day boat, Shropshire Lady, providing a relaxed day for families or groups of up to 12 passengers. The Trust has two other boats – Shropshire Lass which sleeps eight and Shropshire Maid which sleeps six, all of which have been equipped to a high standard with lifts and ramps for disabled or people of all ages with limited mobility.

The gardens surrounding the chalets are maintained by another group of volunteers who have transformed the grounds into a beautiful and peaceful area.