By Leicester Mercury | Posted: 22 September, 2015
Volunteers play a key role in the running of LOROS, whether they are on site, helping out in its shops, or lending a hand at an event.
Loros relies on more than 1,000 people who give up their time.
We spoke to four women who have been volunteering at Loros for 30 years, watching the hospice go from strength to strength.
Leanorah Bennison, of Queniborough: "When their royal highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales officially opened the hospice in 1986, I was lucky enough to be invited to attend.
"I had taken time off work to go and little did I know the BBC was covering and it was going out live.
"When I eventually got back to work I was in trouble, they had all heard me on the radio.
"Last May, I was also one of the three chosen to represent Loros at the Royal Garden Party. The Queen smiled at me.
"I had tears in my eyes as it was such an emotional moment. My day was made complete when a soldier in full dress uniform chatted to me and lent forward to give me a kiss."
Pauline Gibbs, Countesthorpe: "The week before the hospice opened, several of us helped to 
vacuum, clean, put up curtains and give guided tours to show those who had raised the money for this dream to be a reality.
"Over the years, I have watched Loros change from a small, compact unit to a large unit housing a large number of services."
Christine Jones, Groby: "When my husband and I heard about plans to build a hospice in Leicestershire, we decided to do as much as we could to raise funds.
"I feel very grateful for the number of wonderful people I have met through my association with the hospice.
"Even if you walk into a room at the hospice as a stranger you always leave having made a pleasant social exchange and maybe a new friend. I received far more from being within the hospice than I could ever give back."
Ann Langton, Kirby Muxloe: "One of the most unusual jobs I had was to give a baby their bottle while mum tended to dad feeding him his meal – it was a very special moment and one of the many reasons I love to volunteer.
I have had much pleasure in watching the hospice grow into this very wonderful and comfortable place where patients can come and know the care received is second to none.
To help LOROS, get involved with its 30 for 30 campaign by visiting www.loros.co.uk/30for30
