HUNDREDS of new volunteering opportunities across the South Downs can be accessed now online.

A new online map, developed by the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA), is being launched on Saturday (November 7) to make it easier for people to find causes close to their hearts and homes.

There is also a South Downs Volunteering Fair being held on Saturday too at the South Downs Centre in Midhurst, from 11am to 3pm, with information about the map given out there.

Volunteers gain new skills, discover local history, make new friends, get some exercise and enjoy nature, and wildlife, communities and the landscape all benefit.

A report on volunteering in the national park in 2012 estimated that more than 90,000 days of volunteers’ time are given each year.

Large organisations including the National Trust, Petersfield Museum, Parham House and Arundel Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, as well as smaller charities like Friends of Hollingbury and Burstead Woods will be among those attending the fair and recruiting online.

Says Ian Hartle, who leads on volunteering for the SDNPA: “Some people like to give their time on a one-off basis, others turn up every week come rain or shine.

“Some are there for the great sense of companionship and others to get fit, but they all get to enjoy giving something back. Whatever reason they have for giving up their time, we’re grateful and want to make it as easy as possible for people to find the right opportunity for them and for the national park.”