Record number of volunteers lend a hand at Brighton Fringe

As the UK marks National Volunteers’ Week (June 1-7), Brighton Fringe is highlighting the contribution its 180 volunteers have made to this year’s festival.

The volunteers have donated more than 1100 man-hours during May alone.

Joanna Hedges, Brighton Fringe’s event manager, said: “We have been amazed by the response this year. More people are donating their time than ever before.

“Large scale events such as Fringe City would just not be possible without our volunteers. Brighton Fringe is a small organisation and their support is invaluable.”

Writer Steve Jeanes, 66, from Ditchling Road has been volunteering for Brighton Fringe for four years.

He said: “Disintegrating into senility, watching afternoon TV or helping my Brighton Fringe family? It’s a no brainer. Every retiree needs a hobby to keep their brain and body active, and I’ve got the best one.”

The University of Sussex, Brighton University, Brighton Youth Centre, BIMM, Brighton Metropolitan College, DV8 and Brighton Journalist Works have all helped recruit this year’s army of Fringe volunteers. M

Ms Hedges added: “Volunteering at the Fringe is really varied. We have roles in arts industry liaison, event assisting, stewarding, sound engineering, stage managing, marketing, office work and public information.

“Working with us really can open doors. We had a young student volunteer as a sound engineer at Fringe City last week. He was amazing and did so well that a show offered him work right there and then. He was chuffed to bits.”

Brighton Fringe runs until Sunday, June 4.