Lisburn’s selfless volunteersrecognised at gala ceremony

Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland was the Guest Speaker for the evening, which was compéred by well known journalist, Lynda Bryans.

Among the winners were:

• Young Volunteer of the Year - Gary Cusack, Sally Gardens Community Centre.

• Adult Volunteer of the Year - Elsie Vance, Greater Lisburn Ageing Well.

• Small and Large Group Volunteers of the Year - War on Want NI ‘Glimpse into the Past’ Group (small group).

Home Start Lisburn - Colin (large group).

• Newcomer Award (Large or Small Group) - Greater Lisburn Seniors Together.

• Age Sector - Moira Friendship Group.

In all 64 nominees across the award categories received recognition at the gala evening.

The Mayor, Councillor Brian Heading, said it was a fantastic evening “which acknowledged the overwhelming work undertaken by the voluntary sector in the Lisburn area”.

“With the two new award categories this year there was a wealth of people of all ages in the Island Hall, each of whom contributes to society through some form of volunteering. I would like to personally thank all of Lisburn’s volunteers for giving up their spare time to help others and make Lisburn a stronger community.

The Mayor thanked the event’s partners: South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Volunteer Now, Bryson Care and the South Eastern Education and Library Board for their input to the Awards.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland paid tribute to the many local volunteers who, he said, are making a real difference in the lives of local people and communities. 

“I recognise the wonderful gifts that they give; their time, their energy and their passion” he said.

2012 was the first year in which the Mayor awarded a winner and runner up award prize for each category.

Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, said: “Without these unsung heroes there is a lot of valuable work that could not take place in the Lisburn area and it is a privilege for the Council to honour the dedication of volunteers.”