Sandown Green Town Volunteers received the 2022 Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service from Lord Lieutenant Susie Sheldon JP during a special presentation at Sandown’s Broadway Centre last week.
The volunteers were recognised for their dedication and commitment to maintaining and improving the natural environment of Sandown and The Bay, including planters, regular litter picks and beach cleans, as well as a monthly programme of activity.
His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Susie Sheldon said:
“The volunteers go out in all weathers for the benefit of residents and visitors, providing stunning displays and the gateway to Sandown is now a ‘must-do’ photo-op for tourists.
‘The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is an exceptional accolade for voluntary work. It was founded by the late Queen to celebrate her Golden Jubilee in 2002. This Award is one of the last to be awarded during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
“It is a privilege to be able to present this Award and to thank the volunteers in person. Their efforts truly capture the spirit of the Queen’s Award’.
The group was established in 2015/16, supported by Sandown Town Council, and now has over 30 members who are led by Christine Jackson and Ben Holbrook. They have also been recognised by South East England in Bloom, winning the Gold Award for a Coastal Town, as well as Neighbourhood Awards for projects by the Library and Pier.
Christine and Ben have said:
“We were delighted to receive this award in front of family and friends who are always supportive of our activities, and it reflects the time spent by our team of volunteers – they all go the extra mile to make a real difference for the community they live in, and serve”.
Volunteers at the ceremony received special badges, a celebrative programme and they enjoyed a special cake made by the Town Women’s Guild.
