MONMOUTHSHIRE’S dedicated volunteers were celebrated at a special awards ceremony held last month (Friday 25th November) at Caldicot Choir Hall.

The GAVO Monmouthshire Volunteer Achievement Awards is an annual event that showcases the importance of volunteer contribution throughout Monmouthshire.

The winner of the ‘Group Award’ was Social Circles, which has been running for more than 30 years and meets twice a week at the Bridges Community Centre in Monmouth. The group supports around 40 elderly individuals each week to socialise and get out of the house, with volunteers providing travel, refreshments and activities. One of the individuals that attends the group said: “What would old people do if they didn’t come here? It’s my life, my anchor, my purpose, my family.”

The new ‘County Council Chairman’s Award’ was presented by Cllr Jim Higginson to Lorna Corbin for her incredible 30 years of service to Bulwark Scouts group. Her nominators said: “We feel that Lorna deserves an award as a big thank you for her dedication and service to the community in Bulwark for so many years.”   

Holly Brown won the ‘Young Volunteers Award’ for more than five years of volunteering at Portskewett Youth Club, with her nominator stating: “the young people and the community would be lost without her contribution to the club.”

There were eight categories in total, with many volunteers being highly commended.

Clare Jones, GAVO Volunteering Team Manager said: “What a fantastic achievement for all concerned.  Individuals recognised for their contribution and service to their local communities ranged from 8 months to 30 years, which is worthy of celebration and truly inspirational.

“Each and every volunteer at the evening, whether they have served for a few months or thirty years, are role models who show what a terrific community spirit there is in Monmouthshire.”