Police all set for today's Big Walk in Rotherham

The mounted section, cadets, and specials from South Yorkshire Police will join hundreds in celebrating the thousands of people who give up their time to make the town a better place.

Chief Supt Rob Odell said: “We are delighted to be able to support this event and give thanks to the many volunteers who generously give up their time to help others.

“We have lots of enthusiastic, energetic, volunteers performing important roles with the police here in Rotherham and across South Yorkshire. 

“These people give up their free time to assist with community engagement, test purchasing and crime prevention, among other activities. They’re a real asset to our force.”

The walk sets off from All Saints’ Square at about 1.20pm, arriving back in the square after about 40 minutes.

Julie Adamson, Voluntary Action Rotherham services manager, said: “It is important for us to celebrate the unsung heroes who give so much to our town and the Big Walk is just a little something to recognise them and say thank you. 

“We would like to encourage all volunteers and their supporters to join us.”

Cake and drinks will be served at Rotherham Minster after the walk, which is part of National Volunteers Week.

Rotherham has almost 50,000 volunteers who give their time each week to support a cause in their community.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities in Rotherham, call 01709 834462. For more information about volunteering with the police, ring 01709 832353.