THEY come from all walks of life and their ages range from 16 to over 80.

But the volunteers who make Age Concern Bolton so vibrant and buzzing all have one thing in common.

Every one of them says that they get far more out of being a volunteer than they put into it.

In the feel-good factor stakes, there's nothing to touch it, they say.

The full-time staff who lead a veritable army of volunteers admit that Age Concern Bolton -- which has grown to be one of the leading organisations of its kind in the whole country -- just couldn't manage without the people who help out for the love of it.

The BEN went along to the Age Concern's famous cafe and social centre on Ashburner Street to meet just a few of the volunteers and find out what makes the place tick.

The centre was packed and the first thing that hits you as you walk through the door -- as well as the aroma of cooking food -- is that everybody in the place looks happy. Most are elderly, some look very old, but some are younger and disabled and some are obviously there because the friendly place helps to break the loneliness. The sound of housebound people chatting -- without Age Concern's mini bus ride to the centre they would probably not meet anyone all week -- is like music to the ears. And everywhere there are volunteer helpers, quite obviously relishing what they do as they man the cafe till, give out advice, prepare the meals, drive the mini-bus, staff the shop or simply chat to someone who desperately needs some company.

Age Concern runs a mass of projects. They include Ageing Well, co-ordinated by Age Concern's Perveen Khan and aimed at promoting health among the ethnic communities, and a Learning and Resources Centre for older people. That is in Farnworth and is a first in the UK.

Today and Saturday, Age Concern Bolton are at the big Lifestyle 50 Exhibition at the Albert Halls (until 5pm today Friday, and 9.30am to 4pm Saturday) and they are hoping to boost their pool of volunteers.

Befriending Service Co-ordinator Christine Johnson and Development Officer Sylvia Jones are both quick to point out that the volunteers are more than just vital helpers -- they're all their close pals. And they have regular social events such as parties, meal trips and outings.

Christine said: "While we welcome and appreciate volunteers of all ages, people aged 50 and over are particularly prized as volunteers for their wealth of life and work skills experience."

Anyone interested should just go along to the Age Concern stand for information. There's a whole mass of leaflets explaining the roles that volunteers can fill, whether it's for a few hours or a few days a week. Alternatively they can call Sylvia Jones or Christine Johnson on Bolton 382411 or call in at the Ashburner Street centre (next to Moor Lane Bus Station) any time.