DO YOU know someone who goes the extra mile for your community but never seeks or receives recognition?
The prestigious Above and Beyond Awards celebrate and praise those dedicated, caring people who quietly make invaluable contributions to their Saddleworth communities.
Devised by journalist Ken Bennett, the Saddleworth Independent’s founder, the awards are specifically aimed at praising unsung members of residents and community groups.
The inaugural 2016 Above and Beyond winners were celebrated at a glittering presentation dinner when winners received a keepsake, a letter from The Queen and a framed certificate.
Now the search is on to find candidates from YOUR community who deserve recognition in 2017.
Award recipients will be chosen by their community group and will receive an accolade at a special event later this year. There will be one winner from each community.
Cllr Pam Byrne, chair of Saddleworth Parish Council, who attended the presentation dinner for the winners, observed: “It was wonderful to see people nominated by their own villages. Those nominations were diverse and most interesting.
“The rest of Saddleworth would possibly never have learned how much these individuals put into their own community without the Above and Beyond awards.”
Joan Sykes, chair of Scouthead and Austerlands community group, who accompanied their winner to the event, said: “I was amazed when I listened to the amount of time and effort these volunteers gave freely and without a fanfare. It was both humbling and incredible.”
She added: “I know there are many more unsung heroes in our communities and by honouring volunteers in this way gives us the opportunity to show our respect and thanks.
“And publicising what these wonderful people do and achieve, may encourage others to step up and become a doer.”
Do YOU have a candidate who fits the bill? Contact your local community group or send your recommendation by email to: kd_bennett@yahoo.co.uk or write to: Above & Beyond Awards, Upperhouse Oldham Road, Dobcross, Saddleworth, OL3 5RD.
We will ensure your recommendation is passed to your respective community group committee for consideration. They make the final choice of their winner.
All entries must be received before the closing date of Tuesday, February 28, 2017.
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