Mayor of Chelmsford honours committed volunteers at awards ceremony

Today (10 May), The Mayor of Chelmsford presented awards and commendations for Outstanding Voluntary Contribution to local people during a celebratory afternoon tea held in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Chelmsford Awards for Voluntary Service were formed ten years ago by Chelmsford Community Voluntary Services (CVS) to recognise outstanding contribution in volunteering by local people.

The Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Linda Mascot said:

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“Throughout my Mayoral year I have visited hundreds of groups and met many outstanding volunteers around the district. There are so many unsung heroes giving time to so many great causes. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank every volunteer for the contributions they make in helping people of all ages to improve their lives.”

The Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Linda Mascot

This year the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Voluntary Service had three categories.

Winner, Adult category: Chris Chapman

Winner of the Adult category was Chris Chapman for his outstanding over 30 years of voluntary service as a leader and Lead Volunteer of 2nd Chelmsford Scout Group. Chris generously gives around 15 hours each week to the Scouts alongside working full time. His nominator said of this significant commitment “[it] involves leading the whole group consisting of six sections and the building maintenance. He actively participates in our meetings, in some cases, for all six sections due to lack of volunteers and is on hand to answer questions, fundraise, or stand in for any of our other volunteers.”

A Highly Commended certificate was also presented this year in appreciation and recognition of an exceptional contribution made to volunteering by an adult. This was awarded to Dr Karen Lehner for her work with Barrow Farm Riding for the Disabled for over 20 years.

Winner, Young Person category: Henrietta Tyler

Henrietta Tyler was named winner in the Young Person category for her work volunteering with City of Chelmsford Mencap’s lifelong learning service, supporting people with learning disability of every age and ability. Her nominator said “Her abilities are outstanding, and she demonstrates a real passion for ensuring our vulnerable service users feel enthused, enabled and empowered.”

Winner, Team category: Sanctus Team volunteers

Winner of the Team category this year was the Sanctus Team of volunteers, who give an astonishing combined 1,000 hours per month to benefit over 750 service users. The team consists of counsellors, an acupuncturist, addiction therapist, newsletter editor, cafe assistants, cooks, fundraising event supporters, trustees, food collectors, hairdressers, a communications assistant, and a business advisor. Their nominator said: “The team works tirelessly regardless of their age, caring commitments and work status. Without such a dedicated and caring team Sanctus would not be so far reaching and impactful.”

Lorraine Jarvis from Chelmsford CVS highlighted the impact these volunteers have on their local community:

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“Here in Chelmsford we are extremely privileged and thankful to be able to count on the support of so many dedicated volunteers and volunteer teams. Our community is richer because of all that they give.”

Lorraine Jarvis, Chief Officer, Chelmsford CVS

Following the awards ceremony, recipients and their families celebrated with the Mayor and Chelmsford CVS staff with an afternoon tea in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Local charity Chelmsford CVS offers help and guidance to voluntary organisations, community groups and charities across Chelmsford, and a brokerage to match people with local voluntary opportunities. Services include specialist information, resources, online directory Chelmsford Connects, and a variety of voluntary projects. Find out more about their work at www.chelmsfordcvs.org.uk.