As part of 2024 National Volunteers’ Week, Horsham District Council hosted an evening of celebrations to recognise hundreds of local volunteers who work hard to make a positive difference to communities throughout the Horsham District.
The awards evening took place at Slinfold Golf and Country Club on 5 June.
There were seven award categories and the winners were:
Biggest Heart Award: For the volunteer who always gives it their all to help make the difference – Jacqui Clark, Horsham and Crawley Samaritans.
Trustee of the Year: For the trustee who quietly leads their charity to fulfil its purposes and potential – Terry O’Leary, St. Catherine’s Hospice.
Long Service Award: For the volunteer who has been volunteering for so long nobody can remember when they even started – John Bearman, Thakeham Village Hall.
Special Recognition Award: For the team member whose achievements and efforts always go above and beyond – Roy Bayliss, Rotary Club of Horsham.
Permanent Smile Award: Recognised for lifting morale, celebrating successes, and smiling their way through, whatever the circumstances of their volunteering – Ethan Kearl, Springboard.
The Dream Team Award: Celebrating an overall team for outstanding team effort – Billingshurst Community Larder Volunteers.
Young Volunteer Award: For the committed young volunteer (under 18) who is an inspiration to others to get involved – Aaron Van Der Pijll, 4TheYouth.
Outstanding Contribution: For the volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution and made positive change in their local community - Nathan Harman, Rangers Lodge Wildlife Hospital.
The awards were presented by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Rev. Rupert Toovey DL, and the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Philippa Gogarty.
Commenting on the awards ceremony, a Horsham District Council spokesperson said: “Our congratulations go out to all the winners and nominees of our 2024 Volunteer Awards.
As a council we are so grateful for all the amazing work that the voluntary sector has been doing to help our communities, particularly in these challenging times. We feel we could not do all the great work we do without their levels of support.
“They make such a big difference to the quality of the lives of so many people across our District. If you think volunteering is something that you would like to get involved in, please get in touch with our Voluntary Sector Support team at the Council. We have so many different roles available and your help has never been more needed or appreciated.”
To find volunteering opportunities in your area please visit the Volunteer Horsham District website.
Take a look at our volunteering video on our YouTube channel.
The Volunteer Awards scheme, launched for the first time in 2022, aims to highlight the many amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors of the Horsham District.