Clutha-Southland MP Bill English serves afternoon tea at a special function in Balclutha yesterday recognising the efforts of many of Clutha's volunteers. Photo by Glenn Conway.
The Balclutha function, to mark Volunteers Awareness Week, was originally only meant to be for a small group but it soon ballooned into a large gathering at the St John Rooms.
Mr English, who arrived, armed with some home baking, was thrilled with the turnout which he said reflected the massive contribution of volunteers.
Volunteers, he said, were "the glue" that held communities together.
They helped in many different ways that often happened behind the scenes and with little or no fanfare.
Yesterday's afternoon tea was a small but meaningful way to thank those people, Mr English said.
