Acts of unsung heroes celebrated at Havant community award ceremony

Nominations flooded in for the six award categories in Havant’s Celebration of Volunteering, organised by Community First in partnership Havant Borough Council.

Among the 18 winners were the young, the old, and groups big and small, who competed in categories such as Team of the Year and Unsung Hero.

Janet Duggan, volunteer service manager at Community First, said: ‘It was incredibly difficult to select three winners for each category as all nominations received were worthy of an award.

‘It was inspiring to learn about the unsung heroes in our community, working tirelessly for charities and community groups.’

The event took place at Langstone Technology Park and was attended by mayor of Havant, councillor Elaine Shimbart, who presented the awards.

The oldest award winner was 87-year-old Jean Kelly.

She said: ‘I was amazed to have won the Unsung Hero award which recognises volunteering in adversity.

‘I’ve been a volunteer at Angel Radio for 14 years – after losing my husband I became socially isolated.

‘Working at Angel Radio helped me regain my confidence and gave me a purpose.’

The youngest winner was Park Community School pupil Jasmine Bone, 13, who has been a sports ambassador for three years, teaching at local primary schools.

She cut her hair off for The Little Princess Trust, and has raised more than £2,000 at sponsored events.

Cllr Shimbart was pleased to have been involved in helping the other judges.

She added: ‘It was an inspirational evening, it makes you realise how much volunteers do across the borough.’