Gosport's loud and proud volunteers celebrate fifth anniversary

Members of Gosport’s Loud and Proud have made a huge difference to the community with their tireless voluntary work.

This year marks the group’s fifth anniversary and in that time more than 80 young people have been part of the action.

John Jeffs, secretary of Loud and Proud, said: ‘In this anniversary year, the young people have continued this proud legacy by attending and helping out at more than 50 events so far and completed more than 1,400 hours of volunteering.

‘They have earned many plaudits for their support of many civic and community events, including Gosport Borough Council’s summer passport scheme for schoolchildren and the Gosport and Fareham Business and Employment Fair.

‘They have also raised money for local good causes including organising a sponsored homeless sleepover which raised more than £450 for a local homeless young people’s charity.’

Despite their success, the group is in urgent need of new members in order for their good work to continue. The age group is 16 to 25.

The aim is to work towards changing the perception of young people and show there is a role for everyone whatever their background, while building confidence and self-esteem.’

Holly Pitt, 17, said: ‘We take part in lots of community volunteering events that are great for improving your CV.

‘We organise music nights to raise money for local good causes, help out at civic and community events, put on tea parties for sheltered housing residents and work with local schools.

‘We do all this while having fun and making new friends.’

Fellow member Michael Carrick added, ‘Being part of the group has made me feel I am really making a difference and it has been an amazing experience’.

For further information e-mail [email protected].

Alternatively, visit facebook.com/loud.proud or call 07895 959510.