"Why do I volunteer? Because I care about folk."

Fred Uttley went on a pilgrimage across northern Spain to raise money for CAFOD. [CAFOD]

Fred Uttley, 65, has volunteered with CAFOD for eight years. From planning fundraising events, to enthusing young people in schools, Fred’s tireless energy has raised thousands for our work around the world.

Every year I organise a fun day in my parish. We invite people of all ages to take part in an event, whether it’s a sponsored walk, swim or cycle – the whole family can get involved. We usually raise about £1,500.

People tend to put their head in the sand when it comes to the world. It’s easy to forget what other people are experiencing when we have such a good life here. I don’t put my head in the sand because I care about folk.

My family are football mad. My four children and eight grandchildren are all Burnley supporters. We just got relegated, but I don’t mind. We had fun in the premiership and at least the club made a few quid.

I volunteer for CAFOD because more money in every pound gets to those who need it. Its easy to say that money isn’t getting to those who need it – but I know it is. I wouldn’t be doing it if I thought money was being wasted.

I was a protestant when I first started volunteering for CAFOD. I decided to come into the Catholic church five years ago. For me the Catholic faith is the right one. I think its important to follow what you think in life.

Young people are the future! We need young people to volunteer in the future, so its important for them to get an understanding of what’s happening in the world. It gives them a good outlook on life.

When I went to Liberia with CAFOD we met some children who used to be child soldiers. They were just trying to make a living, but had been through some terrible things. It’s hard for people there. If people could see it with their own eyes they would realise how important it is to help. Seeing the work first hand just made me want to do even more.

I like meeting people from all over the world because it reminds me that everyone is the same. Every year I do the Christian pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela in Spain and I meet people from all over the world. It’s through the mountains and it’s really relaxing with beautiful views.

I would volunteer even if I wasn’t a Catholic. But Jesus Christ told us to do the right thing and help each other. If we’re able to help people then we should.

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