Pocklington Together: A Celebration of Volunteers

To mark Volunteers' Week 2026, Pocklington Arts Centre has launched a new photography exhibition celebrating the many individuals who generously give their time to support the local community.

Titled Pocklington Together: A Celebration of Volunteers, the exhibition will be on display in the Arts Centre’s studio from 2 June until 17 July, with a celebratory preview evening on 4 June.

The display features a series of striking portraits by local photographer Neil Barrett and shines a light on the individuals behind the organisations that continue to make a positive impact across the community.

Among the groups featured are Pocklington Rugby in the Community, the People's Pantry, Burnby Hall Gardeners, Brownie leaders, and Ladies Who Latte, a volunteer group to help local businesswomen connect.

Having supported the venue since its inception, the Arts Centre’s own volunteers were an essential inclusion in the exhibition. For more than 25 years they have been at the heart of the venue, welcoming visitors at the box office and in the auditorium, as well as supporting a wide range of much-loved groups, such as Wolds Wonders and the weekly community café.

Photographer Neil Barrett said: “I’m in awe of just how many people give their time so readily for others; this is truly the spirit of our community. My hope is that visitors will look beyond roles or organisations and recognise something more fundamental: neighbours, individuals, and the human generosity that helps hold a community together.”

The project comes as Pocklington has put itself forward for Town of Culture 2028, a bid that has brought the town together and further highlighted the strength of its community activity and the wealth of opportunities within the town.

Pocklington Together: A Celebration of Volunteers will be on display from 2 June – 17 July, with free admission.