Celebrating our volunteers this Volunteer Week

Gloucester Cathedral celebrated its incredible volunteers during #VolunteersWeek by shining a spotlight on individual volunteers across our social media channels.

If you missed it, don’t worry—keep reading to meet some of the amazing people who help make the Cathedral such a warm and welcoming place.

And if #VolunteersWeek has inspired you, click here to find out more about volunteering.

Volunteer Spotlight: Ian – Cathedral Guide

Ian joined #TeamGloucesterCathedral as a volunteer Guide just over a year ago, bringing with him a lifelong passion for history and church architecture. Alongside his work as a GP, he enjoys sharing this enthusiasm with visitors. “I’ve always loved church architecture,” he says. “It’s such a privilege to be part of Gloucester Cathedral.”

Ian currently leads visitors on Highlights and Crypt tours, and is preparing to lead his first Cloister tour soon. He especially enjoys meeting people from all over the world. “I can see myself doing this for years and years.”

Thank you, Ian.

Volunteer Spotlight: Amy – Visitor Information Point & Library

A Cathedral visitor since the age of 2, Amy became a volunteer in October, supporting both our Visitor Information Point and the Cathedral Library. With a degree in art history, she loves the chance to share her passion: “It’s such a beautiful space. I get to talk about history and clean centuries-old books. I totally nerd out!”

Thank you, Amy. We appreciate everything you do!

Volunteer Spotlight: Anne – Wellwisher

Anne has been a Wellwisher at Gloucester Cathedral for nearly 10 years and brings the same warmth to her role as a volunteer at the Beatrix Potter - The House of the Tailor of Gloucester - just next door to the Cathedral! “I love chatting with people, the Cathedral has such a friendly atmosphere. You meet visitors from all over, and I’ve learned so much from them and from other volunteers.” Thank you, Anne.

Volunteer Spotlight: Andrew – Volunteer Chaplain

Andrew has been part of #TeamGloucesterCathedral for six years, serving faithfully as a volunteer chaplain every Monday. Ordained in Australia, he brings years of experience to all who step through the Cathedral doors. For Andrew, the most important part of his role is meeting Jesus in the diversity of people who visit, "If you let them, visitors will ask quite significant questions and if you take the initiative to offer a warm welcome, it can open the door to a really meaningful exchange."

After 30 years as a member of the Cathedral congregation, he sees his role as an extension of that journey. Thank you, Andrew.

Volunteer Spotlight: Ali – Cathedral Guide

Ali has been part of Team #GloucesterCathedral since 2005, leading thousands of visitors around the Cathedral on Highlights and Crypt Tours. “It’s good fun, with good friends and a good laugh. You meet a real variety of people from all over the world, it’s unexpected and fascinating!”

Ali’s still learning something new each week, from discovering ancient graffiti to hidden histories. Thank you, Ali!

Volunteer Spotlight: Chrissie - Flower Guild

Chrissie’s green fingers bring the Cathedral to life through her work with the Flower Guild, a role she’s proudly held for 9 years (with a little break in between!) 🌷🌸

Chrissie often uses flowers from her own garden - including the beautiful pink peonies you can see pictured here. “It’s an honour to be part of Gloucester Cathedral. I love working on the floral displays... and listening to the organ while I do!” Thank you, Chrissie!

Volunteer Spotlight: Sue – Tower Tour Guide

Meet Sue, one of our brilliant Tower Tour guides. After starting out as a volunteer five years ago, she took on her first Tower Tour in 2023. “I originally took it on to keep fit... but now I love the challenge of walking and talking!”

From the climb to the stunning views, Sue never gets tired of the “wow” moment as visitors step out onto the tower walkway and experience the stunning panoramic views. Thank you, Sue!