05/06/2026
As we continue to celebrate Volunteer Week, we’re shining a light on just a small selection of the hundreds of volunteers who help make Stainsby Festival possible.
From planning and organising throughout the year, to setting up, running, and taking down the festival itself, every single one of our 100% volunteer workforce plays a valued role. Stainsby simply wouldn’t happen without the time, energy, creativity, and care our volunteers give so generously.
Today we talk to Vince - our Head Steward to see what volunteering and Stainsby means to him.
1. What inspired you to start volunteering?
I saw an advertisement in my workplace for another charity.
2. How did you first get involved with Stainsby Festival?
I met a couple of Stainsby stewards in a pub near Tideswell who suggested volunteering at the festival.
3. What does volunteering mean to you personally?
I don’t sing or play music very well but I enjoy supporting those that do. I think I’m paying it back for those who helped me in my youth, at the same time paying it forward, supporting future generations.
4. What has been your most memorable moment volunteering?
Perhaps it was meeting Prince Charles with Raleigh International, or maybe carrying Dick Gaughan’s guitar through Stainsby Festival fields, or the private audience with Rory McLeod in Stainsby’s box office.
5. What do you enjoy most about being part of the Stainsby Festival team?
Using my skills for the benefit of others at the same time enjoying the family atmosphere.
6. What keeps you coming back to volunteer?
There’s always an excellent lineup at Stainsby, excellent beer too, not least the company of dear friends.
7. What skills have you gained through volunteering?
There are too many to list, but chiefly the interpersonal skills.
8. How has volunteering changed you?
I think I’m more patient and tolerant having mixed with volunteers and public I wouldn’t otherwise have met.
9. What are you most proud of achieving as a volunteer?
When Stainsby Festival gained the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
10. What makes the Stainsby Festival volunteer community special?
A wide range of skills fulfilling a huge variety of tasks. Something for everyone.
11. How would you describe the volunteer team in three words?
The best family.
12. What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering at Stainsby Festival?
You’ll never leave.
13. Is there a role or activity you’d like to try next at the festival?
Chief beer tester.
14. If you could sum up your volunteering experience in one sentence, what would it be?
The experience gained, skills acquired, and friendships formed cannot be quantified but they are of more value than any paid job.
