This in from the council in their own words. Ed
Today (Thursday 26 September) at the Riverside Centre in Newport, The Footprint Trust will receive a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Responsible for a variety of schemes
The Trust is well known for its work with communities across the Isle of Wight, with its main aim being the promotion of sustainable living. The organisation has a number of projects including Warmahome, a scheme which has helped thousands of Island residents reduce their fuel bills.
Others include the Adopt-A-Garden scheme, wardening projects and Sustainable Schools. The Trust also set up the Isle of Wight Green Gym which now an independent group.
Carole Walker, the charity’s chairman said:
“We are honoured and delighted at this award. It will assist in promoting our work and help us to gain more help for the Isle of Wight. We are very grateful to Her Majesty for this award and for the encouragement and support we have received.”
Cllr Ward: “This award is highly deserved”
The chairman of the Isle of Wight Council is Ian Ward, who added:
“The council has worked with the Footprint Trust on a number of sustainability schemes over the last decade since its launch. Its input has been very valuable.
“This award is highly deserved and I offer my congratulations to all the team and volunteers.”
Ray Harrington-Vail, the general manager from the Trust, will be presented with the Queens Award for Volunteering today by Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Major General Martin White CB CBE JP.
Over 40 representatives from the Trust’s partner organisations and volunteers will be present, and a special celebration cake in the shape of a giant footprint and made with local ingredients, will also be unveiled. Last year Ray was given the National Heat Hero Award for his work is helping those in fuel poverty on the Isle of Wight.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award that can be given to volunteer groups across the UK.
Image: © Suzanne and Alan Whitewood
