Volunteers recognised for commitment to Poole culture

The awards evening, which is in its eighth year, saw hundreds of volunteers gathered together to celebrate their hard work, selfless dedication, and commitment to Poole through the time they donate to a variety of services, including libraries, parks and gardens, and the museum.

Both Cllr Mohan Iyengar, and Mayor of Poole, Cllr Xena Dion were in attendance to congratulate the award winners, and thank all of the Poole Cultural Volunteers for dedicating their time.

“It is wonderful to see so many people giving up their free time to the services of Poole” Cllr Dion said.

“Young and old, male and female, there are no limits to what the people of Poole can do. From encouraging people to read, and creating beautiful gardens at Scaplen’s Court, to teaching computer classes and sharing their skills, our volunteers are a vital element of our community, and we cannot say thanks enough.”

Cllr Dion went on to present seven awards to seven volunteers who have provided outstanding service as a cultural volunteer of Poole. Each of the awards was a beautiful hand painted Poole Pottery plate, donated by Poole Pottery.

The winners were;
Young Volunteer Award: Thomas Read
Contribution to a Single Project: Wendy Govan
Personal Achievement Award: Kirsty Stanford
Versatile Volunteer Award: Jan Ayrton
Volunteers of the Year (hours based for the year 2014/15): Reda Lyle
Skill Sharing Award: Elaine Garfitt
Jolliffe-Allenby Award (for exceptional service to Culture & Community Learning): Pandya Parth

After the awards, guests went on to enjoy entertainment provided by the local folk band, The Deadeye Collective, and each took home a goody bag, filled with gifts donated from local companies, including Lush, Sainsbury’s Poole, Tesco Poole Quay, and Titan Leather Craft. New Street Flowers provided a beautiful bouquet.

For more information about Culture Volunteers Poole, or to sign up to a volunteering position, visit http://www.poolemuseum.co.uk/opportunities/volunteering/