Pocklington Community Volunteers Awards Ceremony 2025

The fifth Community Volunteer Awards Ceremony was held on Friday 17th October, at Pocklington Community Hall, to thank and celebrate the amazing work volunteers do in our community. The roles that these incredible volunteers fulfil varies tremendously, and many of the activities and events that take place in our community would not be available if it wasn’t for these amazing people freely giving up their time and energy. There are more than 85 groups in and around Pocklington that exist to serve our community, run purely by volunteers.

The event, organised by Pocklington Rugby in the Community, in collaboration with Pocklington Town Council and East Riding Council Active Communities, was again sponsored by Hamers Solicitors. Paul Worthy, partner and head of the Company Commercial Department, presented the awards.

We were delighted to have Pocklington School Swing Band play whilst guests arrived. Our thanks must go to them, Mrs Lovelock and Mr Perham for making this possible.

The Mayor of Pocklington, Councillor Roly Cronshaw, introduced the Awards:

‘It is a real privilege to be here this evening to celebrate something that lies right at the heart of our town. And that is, the people who give their time, energy, and kindness to help others.

We are here tonight to recognise all those volunteers who spend time helping others, from those working in larger groups to the unseen, sometimes unheard-of individuals, who volunteer and work hard, but who’s light is often hidden behind a bushel. Regardless of how you volunteer, the purpose is the same, and that is, to help others.

What you do touches lives in ways that are often inconspicuous — helping others find confidence, belonging, and hope. Whether it’s organising events, supporting local families, working with young people, or simply being there with a listening ear, your work strengthens the very fabric of this community.

You bring heart where there’s need, humour where there’s a challenge, and hope where there’s hardship. You prove that kindness and community spirit are alive and well in Pocklington — and that’s something worth celebrating.

So tonight, on behalf of the town and everyone whose lives you have touched, I simply say to all of you who volunteer - THANK YOU. You are the best of Pocklington.’

Before reading out the nominations, Andy Bowden, Chair of Pocklington Rugby in the Community, said " Our community benefits enormously from the work of all our wonderful volunteers. We are pleased to recognise some of these people and groups this evening, but every one of our community volunteers are winners tonight and throughout the year."

The following awards were presented:

The Young Volunteer Award was presented to Lucy Hornby and the pupils of Pocklington School who volunteer with many of our community groups through the school’s Community Action Programme.

The Sports and Active Volunteer Award was awarded to ‘Parky’s Angels’ a group of volunteers from Francis Scaife who support Parkinson’s Activity Sessions.

The Community Volunteer Award went to Pete Nelson - Community Speed Watch/Neighbourhood Watch

Behind the Scenes Volunteer Award was presented to Kathy Gilbank, from All Saints’ Church

The Environmental Award was awarded to Tony Flavell, Greener Pocklington

The Volunteer Team Award was presented to the ‘Pie and Pud’ volunteers (a men’s social group)

The Long Serving Volunteer Award was presented to Rob Jackson, Pocklington Rugby Club. A special thank you was also given to Freda Snelson - u3a and Heather Davidson - People’s Pantry.

Louise Partridge, Community Volunteer Coordinator, said, ‘It is a privilege to work with and support these amazing people and groups. Our community is so lucky to offer so much, to so many, because of volunteers.  Volunteering can be as little as an hour a year, to an hour a week. If you have time to give, there will be a volunteering opportunity for you!”

Following the ceremony, there was an excellent buffet for all attendees to enjoy, thank you to Lilypad Café.

If reading this has inspired you to help your community, please get in touch with Louise: office@pockritc.com  or head to our website for more information www.pockritc.com