The Parks Trust hosted their annual Volunteer Awards on Friday, celebrating their amazing volunteers and everything they do to support Milton Keynes’ parks and green spaces.
Last year, The Parks Trust’s volunteers contributed an impressive 14,322 hours, demonstrating remarkable dedication to Milton Keynes’ parks and helping ensure these spaces remain welcoming for both people and wildlife.
The Trust’s 230 volunteers take on a wide range of roles, from supporting outdoor learning and recreation opportunities to park rangers, serving as wardens at nature reserves and championing wildlife.
“Our volunteers are integral to caring for the city’s green spaces," said Victoria Miles, Chief Executive at The Parks Trust, "Their passion, generosity and commitment really help us to ensure the parks remain vibrant, welcoming and full of life for everyone who visits.
"Whether they’re inspiring children through outdoor learning, supporting events, protecting wildlife or caring for our landscapes, each volunteer plays a vital role in shaping the green spaces our city is so proud of. We are immensely grateful for every hour they give, and these awards are our chance to celebrate their achievements and say a heartfelt thank you for all they bring to our community.”
In attendance at the event and presenting the Volunteer of the Year Award was the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, Pippa Kirkbride, who has championed volunteering and the incredible value that volunteers make in their local communities during her shrieval year.
The award winners were:
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Dawn Maynard
- Outdoor Learning Volunteer of the Year: Gail Revill
- Newcomer of the Year: Sue Muncaster
- Make a Difference Award: Sam Ronnie & Roisin Callaghan
- Contribution to Wildlife: Andy Harding
- Recreation Volunteer of the Year: Bob Evelyn
- Inclusion Champion: Frank Wykes
- Special mentions: David Ollier, Steve Thomason, Helen Jennison, Julie Brady and the Parks & Run volunteer team
