A DRIVE to get more local people volunteering in West Devon is planned with events in Tavistock and Okehampton this month. Devon County Council is funding the volunteer fairs, on Friday, April 25 from 10am to 3pm at Tavistock Town Hall; and on Wednesday, April 30, from 10am to 3pm at The Charter Hall in Okehampton. The two fairs, run by West Devon CVS, and supported by the town councils, will showcase the work that volunteers and staff from a wide range of voluntary organisations provide, and help people find out more about local volunteering opportunities. There are nearly 400 volunteering opportunities currently registered at West Devon Volunteer Centre, ranging from roles with young children and families, older or sick and vulnerable people. Opportunities include sports and outdoor activities, working with animals, or help for the environment.  There are also volunteering opportunities to support third world projects. Karen Nolan, chief executive of the West Devon CVS said: 'Our aim is to celebrate and promote what is at the core of our work in West Devon.  'We look forward to welcoming everyone to help us do just that. 'With nearly 400 volunteering opportunities currently registered — you name it, we've got it!' Cllr James McInnes, Devon County Council's cabinet member responsible for the youth service, which is currently looking to local communities to take on the running of council youth centres, alongside local county councillors Debo Sellis, Kevin Ball and Philip Sanders, have each given funds towards the cost of the fairs. Cllr McInnes, also local member for Hatherleigh and Chagford, said: 'West Devon's volunteers contribute so much towards the lives of so many in the borough that it is a pleasure to sponsor this opportunity for them to showcase their achievements and encourage others to get involved.' Cllr Debo Sellis, local member for Tavistock, said: 'I am absolutely delighted to sponsor this event and be able to thank all those hard-working volunteers who give so much back to our local communities.  'I would encourage anyone interested in volunteering to come along and see the vast amount of opportunities available.' Cllr Kevin Ball, local member for Okehampton, said: 'I am so impressed by the strength of voluntary organisations across the borough.  'Volunteering undoubtedly puts something back into the community but also provides opportunities for the volunteers themselves to meet new friends, develop new skills and become part of their local community.' Cllr Philip Sanders, local member for Yelverton Rural, said: 'These events celebrate what is great about our local communities — local people helping themselves and making a difference to their communities.' For more information about the fairs, contact West Devon CVS on 01837 53392.