VOLUNTEERS have been celebrated for their efforts for the ongoing Midsummer Festival in Denbigh as part of National Volunteer Week.

The Midsummer Festival, organised by the Midsummer Festival Steering Group, is run entirely by volunteer groups and individuals to bring thousands of people into Denbigh during the three weeks of events.

The Midsummer Festival Steering Group, a 12-person volunteer committee, has worked with individuals and groups within the community to hold over 30 events.

The festival began on Friday, June 1 with the volunteer-led bat walk and wattle fencing workshop, followed by the Photomarathon the day after, in which participants were asked to take six pictures on six themes around Denbigh in six hours.

Ruth Williams, chief officer for Menter Iaith Denbigh, an organisation run by volunteers that promotes the Welsh language in Denbigh, said: “We are drawing attention to National Volunteer Week to celebrate the fantastic work done by volunteers in the area.

“The Midsummer Festival has been running for several decades by volunteers and would not happen without them. Events like the recent Photomarathon, which was organised by Denbigh Film Club and hosted by Denbigh Museum.

“There will also be heritage tours around Denbigh by volunteer tour guides every weekend throughout the festival until September, as well as events like the environmental fair and the penultimate Denbigh Carnival. Nearly every event is run by volunteers.

“Menter Iaith supports the festival but we too rely on volunteers.

“There is always a need for more volunteers, every group would tell you that.

“The work volunteers do for the Midsummer Festival is marvellous, not only for the economy but peoples' wellbeing. Thousands come to the area and spend money with businesses, but people are also encouraged to get out and enjoy themselves.

“All of the volunteers’ work has helped to contribute to a vibrant group of volunteers that gives Denbigh the feel-good factor and makes it a great place to live and visit.”