Visit the Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS) stand in the Learning Zone at this year's County Show to find out more about a wide range of voluntary sector training opportunities.

Within Pembrokeshire, there are a number of voluntary groups providing training tailored to meet the needs of the sector. Many courses are free or offered at significantly discounted rates and, in some cases, financial support is available to cover the costs of transport, child/dependents' care and course fees.

Through its European-funded project, Learning in the Voluntary Sector, PAVS can provide free help for voluntary groups in Pembrokeshire to draw up training plans.

Sue Leonard, PAVS senior training officer, explains why this is important: "Training is an investment for the future success and sustainability of any organisation. There are costs involved, not just in terms of the money spent on course fees, travel and so on, but also the time and effort of each person taking up a training opportunity.

It's important that time and money spent on training returns real dividends. There must be a benefit to the organisation, as well as to the individual, and that is why ad hoc training really does not work in the long term. Drawing up a training plan is a vital first step in getting the most out of any training that is carried out."

Visit the PAVS stand in the Learning Zone to sign up for this free service. There will also be information on courses and events, training resources and facilities, networks and partnerships - as well as some fun activities and competitions.