DECADES of contribution by a charity volunteer have been recognised with a prestigious award.
Robin Sherwood has spent 30 years with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, serving as a driver for patients across Purbeck and east Dorset.
He was chosen along with just 21 other volunteers from across the UK this year to receive the League of Mercy award, and was the only person from Dorset to receive it.
He accepted his honour at an event at Mansion House in London.
The award was presented by the Rt Hon the Lord Lingfield, president of the Trustees of the League of Mercy, in the presence of Her Royal Highness, Princes Katarina of Yugoslavia.
Robin said: “I am thrilled and honoured to win this award.
“It really means a lot to me. I think I have volunteered around 10,000 hours the past thirty years and driven the equivalent of around the world four times for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and I’ve loved every moment of it.
“In early 1992 my wife saw an advert in the Daily Echo. Early retirement had become a little boring and I missed the three P’s – people, purpose and pattern.
“Lewis-Manning Hospice Care provided all three and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 30 years and the contribution I have made to this worthwhile charity.”
Clare Gallie, chief executive at Lewis-Manning added: “Robin is a true inspiration and really deserved this amazing award.
“We quite simply wouldn’t be able to run the hospice without people like Robin, who always go that extra mile for their community.”
Robin concluded, “Volunteering is such a special experience. The best thing about it for me is the friendships I have made both with staff, volunteers and patients. If you’re thinking of helping and supporting a charity please give it a go, it may surprise you!”
The League of Mercy is a charity dedicated to honouring and recognising the incredible work of volunteers.