On a memorable evening in Radcliffe, volunteers from the local community were celebrated for their selfless contributions at a surprise awards night. Hosted at the newly opened Growing Together community hub, the event was a heartwarming acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of individuals who have made significant impacts in Bury and its surrounding areas.
The awards night, held on March 7, was organized by Tina Harrison MBE, the community volunteer lead at Trinity Foodbank, and Gill Smith, the founder of the Radcliffe Litter Pickers. Their collaboration was fueled by a shared vision of recognizing the efforts of volunteers who often go unnoticed. Each received a £250 grant from the Bury Voluntary Community and Faith Alliance (VCFA) and Bury Council through the “Let’s Value Volunteers” fund, which aims to support initiatives that honor community service.
More than 80 volunteers were honored during the event, each receiving badges and certificates as tokens of appreciation for their hard work. Gill Smith expressed her delight at the turnout, stating, “We thought that we could do more if we combined our funding. We put on the awards and everyone enjoyed a buffet on the night. It’s important to make sure the people in our community feel valued.” The evening was not only a celebration but also a testament to the spirit of community and collaboration that thrives in Radcliffe.
The surprise element of the event added to the excitement, with Gill noting, “It was tricky but we managed to keep it a surprise!” The atmosphere was filled with joy and camaraderie as volunteers mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed a delicious buffet provided by Harrison’s Catering. Tina Harrison added, “Volunteers don’t do it for thanks, but we felt they do so much for so many that we needed to celebrate and say thank you.”
The awards were presented by Eamonn O’Neal, a former BBC presenter and the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, who brought a touch of prestige to the evening. His presence underscored the importance of the event and the recognition of the volunteers’ contributions. Bury Council’s chief executive, Lynne Ridsdale, also attended, emphasizing the vital role volunteers play in the community. She remarked, “Volunteers are the unsung heroes of our borough, and so many activities would not take place without them.” Ridsdale highlighted the dual benefits of volunteering, noting how it fosters community spirit while also providing personal growth opportunities for the volunteers themselves.
The awards night not only celebrated the achievements of the volunteers but also served as a reminder of the collective effort required to support and uplift the community. The event showcased the diverse range of individuals who dedicate their time and energy to various causes, from environmental initiatives to food security programs. The recognition of these volunteers fosters a sense of belonging and encourages others to engage in community service.
As the evening unfolded, the sense of gratitude and appreciation was palpable. The volunteers, who often work behind the scenes, were given the spotlight they deserved, reinforcing the idea that every act of kindness contributes to the greater good. The Growing Together community hub, which opened its doors just a month prior, served as a fitting venue for such a celebration, symbolizing the unity and collaboration that defines Radcliffe.
The awards night was a resounding success, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to continue their volunteer efforts. It highlighted the importance of recognizing those who give their time selflessly, ensuring that the spirit of community service remains alive and well in Bury. As the evening came to a close, the smiles and laughter shared among volunteers echoed the sentiment that together, they are making a difference, one act of kindness at a time.
