SWINDON has a lot to be proud of and Mayor Mick Bray is looking for the town’s unsung heroes.
He was joined by previous winners and dignitaries at the Civic Offices for the launch of the Pride of Swindon Awards 2013.
The awards started in 2008 and has unearthed some of the most deserving volunteers and fundraisers in the town.
Winners of individual awards last year were at the launch of this year's awards to talk about their experience.Eunice Salmon, of Nine Elms, was awarded for her endless fundraising for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Her next fundraising adventure is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro next year.
She said: “I felt very shocked that somebody has put me forward because it is just something that I like to do.
“It is something to be proud of. “To be at the awards and hear so many unbelievable stories, it is a really good thing to be a part of.”
Bonny Walsh, of Liden, was praised for her work with Swindon Limbless.
She said: “I was bowled over by the award. “I really wasn’t expecting it and didn’t know anything about it, but I was very proud.”
The panel of judges are looking at nominations for those who work in the voluntary sector giving up their time and services to help others, someone who simply helps out a neighbour, a young person who is a role model or a teacher who is an inspiration, in fact anyone that goes that extra mile.
This years awards were presented by Shirley Ludford at the Steam Museum in May, and recognised the work of 37 inspirational individuals who were all given certificates for their hard work.
The overall winners’ names will be engraved on a plaque in the Central Library.
The mayor said: “To be associated with the Pride of Swindon Awards is a great honour. “Nominees demonstrate how volunteers have improved the life style of many people in Swindon.
“Demonstrating our support for the awards will draw attention and inspire the younger generation to realise the importance of helping others.
“I hope the panel making the final selections will have their work cut out when finalising the list.”
If you want to nominate a local hero for this year's Pride of Swindon award, print out and fill in the form, and in no more than 250 words, write why your are nominating this person/team for an award and send it to The Pride Of Swindon Awards, Mayor’s Office, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH or email prideofswindonawards@swindon.gov.uk. Applications must be received by Friday, February 1, 2013.
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