Here's the official Press Release:
The brightest stars are those that shine for the benefit of others and this week Halton's brightest stars were honoured for their work and commitment to the cause.
Thursday night saw Halton Voluntary Action host Halton's second Voluntary and Community Sector Awards Night. This celebration of everyone who voluntarily gives up their time and energy to improve the lives of people in Halton was attended by over 100 guests. Attendees had the exciting experience of selecting the winners of the awards on the night after watching short films on each of the nominated groups, projects or individuals. Guests also enjoyed presentations from Halton Voluntary Action as well the evening's sponsors; Halton Housing Trust and Connexions Greater Merseyside. The evening was completed with an emotionally charged speech by the Voluntary and Community sector Champion of the Year, Dee Graal of the Widnes & Runcorn Cancer Support Centre.
Comments received from guests after the event included:
"Last night was truly amazing - thoroughly enjoyed myself. Please pass my thanks on to all who worked on it."
"We at Halton Housing Trust really enjoyed ourselves on the night. A few of us were quite choked at points when watching the video clips, it really was a great production."
"I must say that last night was the best awards event I have ever attended. It was an honour and a privilege to be involved in such a worthwhile cause"
The nights award winners were:
Volunteer of the Year: Colin Egerton (Runcorn Scouts)
Connexions Young Volunteer of the Year: Daniel Baker (Halton Youth Action Team)
Best Business Support of the Year: Jennie Beechey and Widnes Asda
Halton Housing Trust award for the Project with the Biggest Impact: Halton Speak Out
Board Member of the Year: Matthew Roberts (Halton Access to Media)
Voluntary and Community Sector Champion of the Year: Dee Graal
For more information regarding the event please contact Matthew Roberts or Andy Guile at Halton Voluntary Action on 01928 592405 or aguile@haltonva.org.uk
For me personally, I was just relieved that all the slides played in the right order and that all the audio files worked correctly. The recipients of the Awards seemed truly delighted and if they enjoyed the night, then I think it was a triumph overall.
It was very strange (and embarrasing) to sit in a room full of people and listen to bits of me on the HVA Radio Show being played out. Still, it got a few laughs (especially the clips featuring Chris Carlin). A poor man's "Mark and Lard" (and proud of it).
I really hope that we can do the event again next year.
Did you enjoy this year's event?
Would you like to see another Voluntary & Community Sector Awards Night in 2010?
Please post below and let us know what you think.
Matthew Roberts
(01928 593118)
mroberts@haltonva.org.uk
