A volunteer bureau is organising an open-house coffee morning in a bid to encourage more people to give up their time to help others.

The 'drop-in' session will be on Thursday, June 1, at the Carers Centre, in Horsefair, Banbury, and free coffee, tea, and refresh- ments will be available from 10am to 12.30pm.

Bureau's coordinator Moira Cross said: "Anybody who wants to know more about volunteering, and what opportunities are available in Banbury and the surrounding area, will be very welcome.

The volunteer bureau is a register of volunteers that places helpers in situations that suit their talents and abilities.

Mrs Cross said: "Hopefully, people who are shopping in town that day will call in for some refreshments and find out how they can help the community."