VOLUNTEERS who selflessly give their spare time to a range of good causes have been rewarded for their efforts.

Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) gave community organisations the chance to nominate their volunteer of the year and awards were given out during a celebratory event.

Nominees could be put forward for long service, outstanding contribution to their group’s work or for particularly dedicated volunteering.

Among the 15 winners, was Reverend Gill Putnam who volunteers with Chaplaincy About Town (ChAT) in Weston, supporting vulnerable people by providing a listening ear.

Two volunteers with Westonworks, Lyn Gilbert and Stephen Varney, were rewarded for their efforts supporting people in a work club and computer club.

VANS volunteers Amy Burgess and Alex Judd were also among the award winners for their efforts helping to develop its Volunteer Pathway project.

Virginia Lowe and Gloria Ingham were recognised for their work as treasurer and secretary for the Multicultural Friendship Association (MFA), which meets every week in Weston.

Alan Richards was nominated as volunteer of the year for Alliance Homes. He works with its Bournville team, supporting a number of community initiatives on the estate.

John Williams, who volunteers with VIA in Weston supporting people recovering from addiction, and Coral Bird, who lends her time to children’s centres at Castle Batch and The Campus were also rewarded.

Lynn Law received an award for her volunteering with Positive Step, which works across North Somerset to deliver psychological support to people across the district.

Jean Green was recognised for her volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Society, looking after people with dementia so their carers can attend a monthly support group in Worle.

Wendy Bryant, volunteer centre manager for VANS, said: “Volunteering can help you to increase your confidence and develop skills and experience, whilst meeting new people, and improving your quality of life.

“We really want to thank all those people who volunteer in such a wonderful variety of ways across North Somerset.”