Wrexham volunteers honoured with celebration events

The event was hosted by the Association of Voluntary Organisations (AVOW) in Wrexham last week at Coleg Cambria's iâl Restaurant

For the first time, two events were held; an afternoon occasion for adults in volunteering and the evening specifically for youth volunteers.

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AVOW's chief officer, Dawn Roberts-McCabe, welcomed guests and introduced the special guests and keynote speakers. Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Andy Williams was keynote speaker and certificate presenter for the afternoon event. High Sheriff of Clwyd, Kate Hill Trevor presided over the evening's youth event.

Cllr Andy Williams shared his passion for volunteering with the audience gathered. He was recognised for his volunteering efforts as one of only 500 Coronation Champions who received a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a signed certificate from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and was invited to attend one of the official Coronation celebrations.

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High Sheriff Kate Hill Trevor said: "In a world of gadgets and technology, the importance of communication and community mustn't be forgotten and Volunteers' Week is a wonderful chance for us all to acknowledge and thank the millions of people who give their time and skills to charities and community projects.

High Sheriff Kate Hill Trevor with performers and award recipients Dynamic Signing Sensations. Photo: Phil Green Photography

"Volunteers are quite simply at the heart of every UK community and it is very clear that the contribution people make to society by volunteering is absolutely essential in today's world. Volunteers' Week is a time to celebrate and applaud the actions and hard work of all volunteers and it gives me great pleasure to add my personal thanks to all of you here today."

Chris Buchan, from Welsh Government, recognised not only the young people's contribution to the community but also the parents who foster and support their volunteering activities.

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Nia Greer from Wrexham Vision Support presented a special award to volunteer Pam Lewis in honour of the late Sue Lees - a long standing volunteer, who was a very active supporter and advocate for people with sight loss.

The young volunteers were treated to a concert by the Dynamic Signing Sensations choir, who had everyone clapping along to their vibrant performance of pop hits and musical classics.

Dawn Roberts-McCabe, chief officer of AVOW, said: "We were overwhelmed at the response of the local community and their desire to celebrate all of the wonderful volunteers who give their time so freely. We know we have only been able to scratch the surface of our volunteer community and invite any organisations who may not have been able to participate today to get in touch with the team at AVOW. We would be delighted to arrange for their volunteers to be celebrated in the near future."