Four outstanding Worcestershire volunteers have been recognised by Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort as part of the official Coronation celebrations in conjunction with Royal Voluntary Service.
Veronica Kumeta from Bromsgrove, Velda McMillan and Elaine Kirby from Stourport on Severn, and Sophie MacLeod-Whitehouse from Kidderminster have been recognised for their contribution to volunteering and crowned Coronation Champions.
This follows a call out to the nation to nominate their volunteer heroes. Almost 5000 entries were received, with nominations made for individuals aged 14 up to 103.
Mrs Beatrice Grant, Lord-Lieutenant for Worcestershire said: “ I am delighted to hear that four people will be representing our county as Coronation Champions. Worcestershire has an enthusiastic and thriving voluntary sector. I know, first hand, how rewarding volunteering can be, and I’m really pleased that these people will be recognised in such a unique way for their hard work and dedication.”
Catherine Johnstone CBE, Chief Executive of Royal Voluntary Service said: “We were completely blown away by the response to the Coronation Champions Awards and the huge volume of amazing nominees put forward. Our judges had a tough job selecting just 500 Champions from an array of thousands of inspirational individuals, who all deserve to be recognised and commended.
“Each of our Coronation Champions displayed a commitment and contribution that far exceeds any expectation and we’re overjoyed to honour and thank them during this exciting point in history.”
With the support of Her Majesty The Queen Consort, a passionate advocate of volunteering and President of Royal Voluntary Service, the Coronation Champions Awards were launched to recognise exceptional volunteers from across the country at this momentous point in history.
Across the UK, 500 Champions dazzled the judging panel with the impact of their work, their inspirational stories and unwavering commitment to volunteering.
All Coronation Champions, have been invited to attend one of the official Coronation celebrations, such as the Windsor Castle Coronation Concert or a Coronation Garden Party.
They will also receive a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a certificate signed by Their Majesties.
Volunteers who were nominated for the awards, have worked within the last five years in one of the following categories:
- supporting older people
- supporting young people and children
- crisis and welfare
- community
- sports, culture and heritage
- health and care
- sustainability and the environment
- animal welfare