Newbury volunteer overcomes odds to scoop national award

A VOLUNTEER at a Newbury town centre charity shop has triumphed over personal odds, to scoop a national award.

Hannah Smith, aged 24, a volunteer with the British Heart Foundation’s charity shop in the Market Place, recently received the Retail Volunteer of the Year Award, from the British Heart Foundation.

Miss Smith, who lives in Newbury and is partially sighted, said:“I am delighted to have been given such a prestigious

title as there are so many worthy volunteers who give their time to the BHF.

“I have made some wonderful friends and have so many lovely memories. I would encourage anyone to volunteer for the BHF as it is such a rewarding experience and you get to meet the most fantastic and inspiring people.

“We also have a lot of support as volunteers and there are lots of things you can do to get involved.”

The award was presented at the shop by BHS area manager, retail division, Margaret Richardson, who said:

“Volunteers are absolutely essential to the success of the charity, and play a vital part in fighting coronary heart disease,

the nation’s single biggest killer.

“We simply couldn’t do the amazing work we do without people like Hannah. We appreciate every minute she has given

us and we hope this will go some way to showing how grateful we are.”

With roles to suit students, the retired, or those with spare time, the BHF also encourages volunteers to work towards

qualifications, with 800 NVQ’s awarded during the last academic year to volunteers, 900 of whom are working towards

their bronze, silver or gold Duke of Edinburgh award.