Dedication to Guernsey Voluntary Service rewarded
DEDICATED volunteers received their long-service awards at Government House.
Combined, the 33 recipients have devoted 525 years to the Guernsey Voluntary Service.
Duties involve supporting the Jubilee and Russels day centres and the Meals on Wheels Scheme, as well as transporting clients, hairdressing, and various other roles.
Two people received platinum awards for 30 years – Jubilee Day Centre hairdresser Lesley Perchard and Lady Bridget Carey.
‘I don’t know where the time goes,’ said Mrs Perchard, who started before the day centre was built.
‘We had no salon so all had to share the bathroom.
‘It’s a very satisfying job to do and a very upbeat place to come to.
‘I think over lockdown more people have appreciated the importance of having a haircut.’
Mrs Perchard said a volunteer barber would be useful.
A visit to the day centre is a joy for those who pop in, she added.
‘The ladies and gentlemen will tell you wonderful things – they are living history.’
After 20 years of volunteering, 12 people achieved gold awards, including Paul Davis, with his wife Eileen, being one of seven to achieve the silver award for 15 years’ service.
‘It has been a privilege to work with GVS,’ Mrs Davis said.
‘We really enjoy our Meals on Wheels rounds in the south-west of the island and, over the years, have met many delightful people.’
Mr Davis has also served as a minibus driver, has been a Company Member and enjoys helping out on flag days.
‘We are very proud of our gold and silver awards.
‘Some people spend many more hours volunteering than we do, but we’re sure we speak for everyone when we say how much we all appreciate this being recognised at a special reception at Government House.’
Michelle Kohlschein achieved the bronze award alongside 11 others, after 10 years supporting the Meals on Wheels scheme.
‘It was a great evening, the governor was lovely,’ said Mrs Kohlschein, who has been involved with the service for almost 20 years.
‘You have to do a certain amount each year for the awards. It was great during lockdown, people were so appreciative and very pleased to see us. They can get lonely – and it’s the little things we do, like posting their letters and getting them their papers.
‘They give you as much as you give them. It’s a great service and is very rewarding – the hard bit is finding your way around all the Torteval lanes.’
