Amanda started volunteering when her children were in Button & Bows Playgroups at the Centre.

Christine Abbott, the worker at the centre asked her to help out. Initially getting to know the workers at the nursery, she then got chatting to other groups and realized how friendly and welcoming they were.

From this beginning, she is now a volunteer worker at the junior youth club, and loves it!

Amanda has accessed a wide range of training that has been on offer including a first aid course, health and safety at work course, and a 4 week course in helping juniors with their maths homework.

Amanda is very proud of the fact that she is providing a good role model and mentor for the children in her charge.

The thing she loves most is is joining in with the kids activities, showing kids by example, having fun and providing a wide range of activities in the club.

She is also friendly and supportive to parents, and is on hand to provide a "listening ear"

"People ask me why i do it for free and to be honest, its not all about money. I get a lot back and can play a positive part in kids lives. The rewards for helping out are also:

A great sense of achievement

The people and kids i work with a in general quite happy and upbeat

Its great helping kids learn skills they need in life"

The youth club is now my main area of responsibility and I help run the junior club which is 7-12 year olds on Monday, 3.30 -5 and little people's club for 5-7 year olds on Wednesday 3.30 - 5.00

I work between 5 & 15 hours per week volunteering, i am happy in my work and have gained enough experience and confidence by getting involved to have a go at most things.

Amanda Stringer has lived on Langley for the last 4 years. Originally from Failsworth, she spent most of her earlier life in Fleetwood.

She moved to Langley, initially to be near her mum and family and has two children Reese (9) and Lacey (6).

"There's lots of things i like about Langley, obviously being near my family is a great help, but i like people's upbeat friendly attitude and there's still a lot of community spirit.

I also like the fact that i have been able to take up many new opportunites that have come up and its given me a lot of confidence.

On the downside, i really don't like inconsiderate people or teenagers, particulary if they are too noisey!

We are always looking for new volunteers who are interested in working with children between the ages of 5-12.

If you would like to get involved, phone Demesne Community Centre for more information 0161 653 2902.

Because we work with children, all volunteers would need a police check, before they are able to start.