Cumbernauld and Kilsyth community champions rewarded at glittering ceremony in Motherwell

The so-called Voscars, run by Voluntary Action North Lanarkshire named the winners of this year’s awards and many of our readers will recognise those handed the laurels

Westfield’s Billy Lees who chairs Cumbernauld Community Forum was named Golden Volunteer for his tireless work over the course of three decades

Joint nominees, sisters Laura and Hannah Johnstone won the Young Volunteer category. The former Greenfaulds High School pupils have been volunteering at their old school for five years in a row to help the school produce its popular shows.

Jean Ford of Cumbernauld was named as Volunteer Champion for her work with the local branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society in the town which spans more than 20 years.

Two volunteers whose homes fall into the Kilsyth Chronicle catchement area were also rewarded.

They are Demi O’ Mellon from Croy who has excelled as a volunteer with North Lanarkshire Firereach ProJect where she works with S3 pupils to increase the awareness of the dangers of fire. Her victory comes under the Supporting Fire Safety and Awareness category.

Finally, Doreen Strachan who hails from Auchinloch picked up the award for sports volunteering.

Doreen founded Cumbernauld and Kelvin Visually Impaired Blind Bowlers Club and has enabled many with a disability to enjoy the sport.

The Cumbernauld News and Kilsyth Chronicle would like to extend its warmest congratulations to all the winners for the commitment they have shown in providing a helping hand.