A CITIZENS advice group which has served the community for 30 years is looking for volunteers to help continue its 'rewarding' work.

Members of the Ribble Valley Citizens Advice, in Wesleyan Row, Clitheroe have celebrated the unit’s 30th anniversary this year.

More than 60,000 people have received help with legal issues including benefits, debt, housing and employment matters over the last three decades.

One resident who used the service, said: “I was panicking because I was too ill to work. I thought we were all going to be evicted.

“I had no money for food or electric. I had no phone credit.

“My friend called the Citizens Advice Bureau for me and I spoke to someone called Gill who asked me to see her the next day.

“I found it hard to explain as everything seemed so difficult but she was very patient and understanding.

“At the end of that first appointment with Jill, I felt so much better because my landlord had agreed to hold off and I had phoned to start a benefit claim.

“I am still working with Citizens Advice to sort out payment problems but I am managing better and not frightened about being homeless.

“I don’t know what I would have done without that Citizens Advice lady.”

Celebrating Ribble Valley Citizens Advice achievements new chairman of trustees Allan Knox said he is proud of its record.

He said: “With the diligent support of local people, the service is entering its 4th decade of delivering a free, impartial and independent advice.

“In the last year the claimed back over £200,000 which goes straight back into the local economy.

“This is a significant contribution to the wellbeing of the community.

“A massive thank you to the volunteer team who make it possible.”

Katy Marshall, the manager of Ribble Valley Citizens Advice, said she is looking for new recruits who can volunteer their services to the group.

She said: “The bureau is now seeking new recruits who can offer a volunteer commitment of seven hours a week for at least one year.

“Volunteer advisers are given careful training and support; they are introduced to the work gradually and always supervised.

“Usually people do two half day sessions at the Ribble Valley base in Clitheroe.”

Gill, one of the experienced advisers, said: “This can be very rewarding volunteer work, it is also hard work sometimes, but it’s good to feel that you have made a difference.”

If anyone is interested in volunteering contact Katy on 01200 428 998 or email on manager@ribblevalleycab.cabnet.org.uk.