Assistant Beaver Scout Leader, Simon Gates, has been awarded a County Council Volunteer of the Year Award in the category of 'Inspiration' at a special ceremony in St Ives.

This is the first year Cambridgeshire County Council has conducted a search for leading volunteers within the Community. The Authority asked members of the public, volunteers and community groups to nominate people who had made an outstanding contribution through their volunteer work.

The awards, which recognises the achievements and work of volunteers up and down the county, had 20 recipients in 5 categories, ranging from Commitment to Team Effort. Cambridgeshire's Lord Lieutenant, Hugh Duberly, was on hand to present the awards.

On accepting the award, Simon told us;

"Although I am extremely grateful to receive the award, it is also worth recognising the work of the other 1000 adults across the county who do a fantastic job week in, week out, inspiring kids to be part of an adventure to try new things, meet new people, make new friends and encourage them to become better people within their community. This award is very much recognition for their efforts in making this happen in the county and I am privileged to be collecting it as a contributor towards that cause."

Award winners and guests were treated to a marvellous 3-course meal prior to proceedings and many were surprised to be there. Volunteers from all sections of the community were present, giving Simon and three fellow scouters a great opportunity to hear the achievements of others whilst sharing their own stories.

The awards ceremony also combined the annual Calor 'Village of the Year' Award.