TWO events will take place in Truro this weekend, shining a spotlight on the voluntary sector.

The Big World Fair will take place in Truro Cathedral on Saturday, from 10am to 3.30pm. The cathedral will be full of stands with information and activities from a wide range of local, national and international mission and development agencies. 

The event will be opened by Bishop Hugh Nelson. Speakers include representatives from Tearfund, Christian Aid, Five Talents and Edukid, who will be sharing inspiring stories about their work, how Cornish churches and schools are already involved, and how you can join them.

There will be performances throughout the day, both inside and outside the cathedral, from the Cornwall Youth Choir, the Ukrainian Harmony Ladies choir, the Roseland Academy samba band, local singer-songwriter Isaac Salaman and African drumming workshops. On Sunday, Truro Volunteers Day will take place on Lemon Quay on Sunday, from 11am until 3pm.

Organiser Paul Caruana said: “We realised there was a need for such a day to encourage those out there with the time, energy and desire to volunteer, to come along and see first-hand what opportunities exist.”

The list of charities and groups registered to attend includes: Amnesty International, Blood Bikes, Carrick North Girl Guiding, CHBN Radio, Cinnamon Trust, City of Truro Band, City of Truro Male Choir, City of Truro Sea Cadets and Royal Marines, Cornwall Butterfly Conservation Group, Cornwall ACF, Cornwall Family History Society, Cornwall Hospice Care, Drums 4 Fun, Friends of Daubuz Moor, Home Start Kernow, Kernow Kidney Patients, Maria’s Animal Shelter, National Coast Watch, Police Volunteers, Royal British Legion, Samaritans, Shower to Stage, Truro Civic Society, Truro Homeless Action Group, Truro Lions, Truro Loops, Truro Rotary Evolution, Truro Samba and Volunteer Cornwall. 

A live choir session is planned to take place at 2pm, courtesy of the Shower to Stage Group.

The event has been supported by Truro Business Improvement District and Truro City Council, which have contributed towards funding the day, meaning costs are covered and the event is free for charitable organisations to take part in.