Local Scouters recognised at County Volunteer Awards
By Julie Gillies and Simon Gates, 5th September 2006
This is the first year Cambridgeshire County Council has conducted a search for leading volunteers within the Community. The Authority asked members of the public, volunteers and community groups to nominate people who had made an outstanding contribution through their volunteer work.
At a combined presentation evening held on Tuesday 5th September in St Ives for the Cambridgeshire Calor Village of the Year and Volunteer of the Year Awards 2006, four local Scouters were presented with awards by the Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Hugh Duberly.
Pam Butler (16th Cambridge), John Bishop (12th Nene) and Tony Rogers (1st Hemingford's) all received awards in the category of 'Commitment', whilst Simon Gates (12th & 18th Cambridge) received an award in the category of 'Inspiration'. A total of 20 recipients received Volunteer of the Year awards.
On receiving the award, Simon Gates told us;
"Although I am extremely grateful to receive the award, it is also worth recognising the work of the other 1000 adults across the county who do a fantastic job week in, week out, inspiring kids to be part of an adventure to try new things, meet new people, make new friends and encourage them to become better people within their community. This award is very much recognition for their efforts in making this happen in the county and I am privileged to be collecting it as a contributor towards that cause."
Award winners and guests were treated to a marvellous 3-course meal prior to proceedings and many were surprised to be there. Volunteers from all sections of the community were present, and our scouters had a great opportunity to hear the achievements of others whilst sharing their own stories.
Councillor John Reynolds said "Volunteers enrich our lives and our communities in so many ways and the range of activities are so varied. I am delighted that we have been able to join forces with such a prestigious event as the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Calor Village of the Year to organise a joint celebration of both individual and community voluntary efforts in Cambridgeshire"
Congratulations to you all.
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