CHARITY’S ARMY OF VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATED AT RECEPTION

The contribution made by over 200 volunteers to Norfolk’s sight loss charity was celebrated at a party in Norwich – with several recognised for their long service stretching back as much as a quarter of a century

The Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind, which from the start of next year will be known as Vision Norfolk, held its annual volunteers reception at its Bradbury Activity Centre in Norwich, recognising the work done by the charity’s team of volunteers, who help the NNAB by running sports and leisure activities, advising at eye clinics, being Telefriends, driving, fundraising, escorting and guiding, and working in the charity’s equipment and information centres.

Lord Mayor of Norwich Cllr Vaughan Thomas, the Sheriff of Norwich Dr Marian Prinsley, Mayor of King’s Lynn Cllr Geoff Hipperson and Mayoress Rose Hipperson, and Deputy Mayor of Great Yarmouth Cllr Sue Hacon presented long service certificates to five volunteers who had reached significant milestones.

Receiving a certificate for completing 25 years of continuous service as a volunteer was Bob Oldershaw.  Mr Oldershaw started as a Talking Book engineer, supplying and repairing the Roberts radios, and fixing and maintaining the charity’s computers.  More recently he has volunteered for the fundraising department, helping to raise thousands of pounds for the charity.

Also receiving certificates were Jim Woodrow and Nicola Beetenson, who have both completed ten years service as volunteers, and Stuart Beard and John Ladd, who have both completed five years.

“Without our wonderful volunteers we would simply not be able to offer the range of services that we do to visually-impaired people across Norfolk,” said NNAB chief executive Gina Dormer.

“The demand for our services continues to grow, and it is only through the dedication and loyalty of our army of volunteers that we are able to meet that demand.

“Volunteering is a richly rewarding thing to do, and we would very much welcome anyone who is thinking of volunteering some time to consider helping the NNAB.”

Anyone who would like more information about becoming a volunteer for the NNAB can contact Rachael Green (Norwich) on 01603 973377 or Penny Parker (King's Lynn) on 01553 407004, or email volunteers@nnab.org.uk.