MORE than 100 people celebrated Luton’s inaugural volunteering awards.
Headway’s Angela Murray achieved a double whammy – she was declared Volunteer of the Year and also won the award for exceptional achievement.
Greenhouse Mentoring skills team were named Team of the Year and the Support and Advice prize went to Paul Ward of Victim Support Bedfordshire.
The Children & Youth award was won by Paisley Boyd of SNAP with Michael Harvey of the British Red Cross taking the Humanitarian title.
There were nine awards in all, sponsored by various organisations and charities.
It was officially opened by Luton North MP Kelvin Hopkins and compered by Diverse FM DJ Roy ‘Stumpi’ Robertson.
VIP guests included Luton’s deputy mayor and mayoress, Cllrs Mohammad and Naseem Ayub.
The event was held at the University of Bedfordshire campus and organised by Volunteer Centre Luton, an offshoot of Voluntary Action Luton.
Manager Iris Beazley said: “I’m very pleased how successful this first awards event has been, bringing local partner organisations together to celebrate the work of volunteers across Luton.
“I hope they will become an annual event.”
Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon said the university was proud to be part of the project.
He added: “Everyone nominated is being recognised for their priceless commitment, hard work and invaluable support to the local community.”
Students’ Union president John Perkins said: “We’re delighted to have worked with Volunteer Centre Luton.
“Volunteering is an essential part of community life and this was a fantastic way to celebrate the contributions of so many of our exceptional local volunteers.”
> For more information about Voluntary Action Luton contact iris.beazley@valuton.org.uk or call 01582 733418. You can also visit the website www.valuton.org.uk