The vital role volunteers play in supporting the Island's health service is being highlighted this week.

Volunteers Week aims to recognise and reward those who give up their own time to help others.

The week was launched at the Sea Terminal on Saturday with stalls displaying the wide range of volunteering opportunities open to the Manx public.

Around 100 people work in voluntary roles at Noble's Hospital and during the week it's hoped more volunteers can be recruited for the Department of Health and 15 health-related charities.

Health Minister David Anderson says offering just an hour or two a week makes a difference.