THREE CHEERS FOR LOCHABER VOLUNTEERS Iain Ferguson
Three Lochaber charities were recently awarded the much coveted Queen’s award for Voluntary Service, which is the group equivalent of the MBE. Lochaber Hope, The West Highland Museum and Nevis Radio all received awards of a certificate and engraved glass trophy in recognition of their actives and service. These were presented by Lord Lieutenant of Inverness, Donald Cameron of Lochiel. First awarded in 2003 to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee it has become an annual award to recognised the good works done by volunteers considered to be making an outstanding achievement which greatly enhances the lives of people in their communities.
A specialist assessment panel of independent volunteering experts from across the UK then judge the nominated groups against the Award criteria, taking into account the first appraisal and passes its recommendations to the main award committee. The award is decided after the Queen has given her formal approval.
Each nomination is first appraised in the area where the group works, being led by Her Majesty's representative, the Lord Lieutenant assisted by an assessment panel of leading representatives from diverse sectors of the community. The Lord Lieutenant or their representatives, or both, may meet with the nominated group.
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