PEOPLE across the country are being encouraged to volunteer in their communities to mark the coronation of King Charles.

The Big Help Out day on Monday (May 8) aims to showcase how volunteering benefits both communities and the people who take part.

An app has been created to allow people to search for volunteering opportunities near them, ranging from litterpicks to helping out at community organisations.

These are the events which are due to take place in Tynedale on Monday:

Bellingham

Find out about volunteering at the Heritage Centre

10am - 7pm

What do the organisers say? "Drop in to the Heritage Centre any time between 10am and 7pm on Monday, May 8 to find out about the big variety of volunteering opportunities available.

"Whether you prefer welcoming visitors and school groups, or prefer behind-the-scenes activities, there's lots to choose from. The amount of time you would like to spend volunteering is flexible too.

"If you can't call in on 8 May, do drop in another time when the Heritage Centre is open and have a chat with other volunteers."

Elsdon

Event organised by Elsdon Parish Council

10.30am - 12.30pm

What do the organisers say? "There is an area of the village green that due to its often wet conditions was not deliberately cut during 2022. Consequently for the health of the area as well as visual impact the parish councillors are proposing that the long grass is cut and hopefully wild-flowers to grow.

"If you are able to assist for even just a short time, then the idea is to meet near the pinfold at 10.30am to agree actions.

"Due to a lack of resources if you have a strimmer you can bring to use that would be beneficial otherwise alternative cutting equipment would be useful. Please also bring along suitable gloves and appropriate clothing for such a task as well as a few bags to collect the cuttings."

Hexham

Passionate about history and heritage? Try volunteering at Hexham Abbey

10am - 12.10pm

What do the organisers say? "Come along and join us to find out how rewarding volunteering is at Hexham Abbey. We have many roles, but we are always looking for Stewards to support us in opening the doors to our many visitors.

"Arriving at 10.15am, we will warmly welcome you. You will join us for a guided tour, followed by refreshments and the opportunity to meet Stewards who already volunteer for us to find out all about the role.

"You will also be able to have a tour of the Belltower at 12 noon."

Help the 1st Hexham Scout Group at the Lookwide Centre

10am - 3.30pm

What do the organisers say? "As part of the Big Help Out we have two events happening. The first being an opportunity to help us out with works behind the Scout Centre on Maiden's Walk.

"We will be finishing our campfire circle area, erecting some fencing to make more of the land safe, finishing footpaths, adding new footpaths, adding raised beds, moving a fence, relocating our gas bottle cage. 

"Our Beaver Scouts have an ongoing project to help the wildlife and environment behind the scout hut so we need to make it safe for them.

"This is an opportunity to change their lives and help the environment. Refreshments will be provided.

"In the afternoon for our second event we are throwing our doors open for you to come and try some of the activities we offer on site. .177 Air Rifle Shooting, Crossbow, Campfire Cooking.

"We will also be offering the opportunity to have a go with our training defibrillator just in case you ever need to use one. Somebody may even light the Pizza Ovens."

Ponteland

Litterpick at Ponteland Community Primary School

10.30am - 11.30am

A community litterpick is being held jointly with the local branch of CPRE, Ponteland Action Group for the Environment (PAGE) and Rotary Ponteland.

Equipment is provided.

Wallington Hall

10am - 3pm

What do the organisers say? "We have some opportunities for individuals or the whole family to volunteer and help us to protect and understand more about nature in Wallington.

"Pick up a spotting guide and help us complete a survey as you take in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy the outdoors.

"Opportunities will be available throughout the day to come and try out different types of volunteering with the Ranger team, the Gardening team and the House team.