Community volunteers from across Caerphilly County Borough have been recognised for their work at an annual awards ceremony.
Organised by Caerphilly County Borough Council and the Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO), the Voluntary Sector Achievement Awards were held recently at Blackwood Miners’ Institute.
Winners were congratulated and presented with awards in the presence of the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent, Brigadier Robert Aitken and the Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough Council, Cllr Dianne Price.
The full list of winners this year are: Young Volunteer of the Year – Nerys Harries; Adult Volunteer of the Year – Derek Davies; Environmental Volunteer – Ann and Jeff Kittlety; Parent Volunteer – Ceri Oliver; Trustee Volunteer – Helen Amberry; Group Volunteer – South Wales Armed Forces Day Committee; Personal Journey – Jamie Howells; Mayor’s Civic Award – Mandy Chick; Inspirational Volunteer – Derek Davies.
A ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ was also presented to Bob Cooke, the Vice Chairman of GAVO who is stepping from his role down next month.
A former Mayor and leader of Islwyn Borough Council, which the current council was formed out of, Mr Cooke was recognised for his “outstanding contribution” to the voluntary sector over his career.
Cllr Dianne Price, Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough, said: “It was a privilege to be amongst so many wonderful people who do so many positive things in our community.
“Volunteers are invaluable as they play such a vital role in our society and award ceremonies such as this allows us to do our bit to recognise the positive contribution they make to so many people’s lives.
“I am also delighted that this council has had such a long and successful partnership with GAVO, and that we continue to work so closely to support the voluntary sector in the Caerphilly county borough. I am very proud of this and long may this collaboration continue into the future.”