Volunteers across Havant Borough were recognised recently for their volunteering contribution to the local community. The event took place at The Public Service Plaza where volunteers were presented with Certificates from The Mayor of Havant, Cllr Marjorie Smallcorn.
Volunteers were nominated by organisations from across the Havant area. Tim Houghton, from Community First HEH, who helped organise the event, said “the event was a great success with people being recognised from an amazing variety of areas such as community groups, children and young people, heritage, older people, churches, colleges, families, disability groups, environmental, and the police.†Feedback from the day has been really positive with volunteers saying “We are particularly grateful for the kindness of everyone who looked after us so spectacularly, we were made to feel really special and welcomeâ€.
This year The Mayor Cllr Marjorie Smallcorn presented three special awards. Two Lifetime Achievement Awards went to Keith Stoneman from Havant Borough Talking Newspaper and Bruce Hodgkins from Havant & East Hampshire Mind. The Young Volunteer Award was presented to Chris Peskett from The Right to Work CIC. Chris said “The award meant a lot to me and I really enjoyed the day. It was a fantastic experience to meet the Mayor especially on my birthday!â€.
The day started with a buffet lunch hosted by The Mayor. Musical entertainment was provided by young people from “Midnight Parade†at Warblington School.
If you would like to find out more about volunteering or how your organisation can recruit volunteers, contact the Community First Volunteer Service on 0300 500 8085 or email volunteer@cfheh.org.uk.
The Mayor of Havant presenting the Lifetime Achievement and Young Volunteer awards