THE Lieutenant Governor has presented representatives from the Noble's Hospital Volunteers Service with a crystal trophy and a certificate signed by the Queen.
It was announced earlier this year the service had received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service and a formal presentation took place recently at Government House.
The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups throughout the UK and the Crown Dependencies, and marks outstanding work done by volunteers in their local communities.
Lieutenant Governor Adam Wood, who is the Queen's representative in the Isle of Man, said: "It was a great pleasure to host members of the Volunteers Service from Noble's Hospital here at Government House, where I was able to present them with their certificate and crystal trophy on behalf of Her Majesty.
"I very much enjoyed learning more about the work the volunteers undertake and commend them on this impressive achievement, which recognises the invaluable work they do for our community."
The presentation followed an eventful summer for the service which was the only organisation in the Island to receive the award this year.
Not only did it receive the actual news that it was one of 130 winners - out of 413 nominations - but it also saw representatives attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.
Health Minister David Anderson MHK said: "The tireless work undertaken by our selfless volunteers can easily go unnoticed by many patients and visitors attending Noble's Hospital and our other health premises.
"But it is often volunteers who are on-hand to point you in the right direction when you have a query, as well as providing a wide array of other services, such as being dining companions and assisting with the healing arts programme.
"I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of those who currently volunteer and to those who have volunteered in the past.
"Whilst this prestigious award reflects very well on the department, Noble's Hospital and our Island – it is first and foremost for the volunteers themselves who are dedicated simply to being there to help for the benefit of others."
The volunteers said: "We feel very honoured to be presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary service.
"We work hard to provide that 'little extra' for the patients and visitors and it is always good to have that appreciated and recognised."
Volunteers Joan Comish and Betty Dow added: “It was an unexpected honour and we feel very proud to be selected for doing a service which is so very enjoyable."
Volunteers Mary and Len Templeton said: "It was very pleasing to be recognised in this way. The work of a volunteer is very interesting, enjoyable and worthwhile."
The Volunteers Service came into existence in the early 1990s as a welcoming service at the old Noble's Hospital site on Westmoreland Road.
The Service has continued to grow, expanding beyond welcoming and now plays a crucial part in the delivery of services at Noble's Hospital and other Island health care facilities.
Approximately 90 individuals currently volunteer their time to the service, with on average 260 hours donated per week – equivalent to seven full time staff.
Nine volunteer groups from the Isle of Man have now received this annual award since it was created by Her Majesty to mark the occasion of her Golden Jubilee in 2002.
Alison Lester, volunteer service manager, added: "The Island is extremely lucky to have people who week in week out give their time freely to the benefit of others.
"Our service has grown tremendously over the last few years, with new roles continually developing; this could not be achieved without the help of the volunteers and support of Noble's Hospital and the Department of Health."
