Ward councillors shine a spotlight on unsung volunteers at the Boston Borough Council Volunteer Recognition Awards

Volunteers who quietly go above and beyond to support their local communities were celebrated at a special awards event held last night, recognising individuals whose dedication often goes unnoticed.

The event was hosted by The Worshipful The Mayor of Boston, Councillor Barrie Pierpoint, who welcomed guests and joined ward councillors in thanking volunteers for their invaluable contributions to community life.

Each recipient was nominated by their ward councillor, who selected them to highlight the outstanding work they do behind the scenes to support residents, strengthen communities and improve local neighbourhoods.

The event brought together councillors, community leaders and residents to honour the commitment, kindness and selflessness shown by volunteers across the borough.

Among those recognised were Jason Dust and Donna Frances, nominated by Councillor Dale Broughton, for their dedication in serving their community as local postmasters. They were praised for going above and beyond to support residents in Wrangle, ensuring vital services remain accessible and offering help whenever it is needed.

Terry Knott, nominated by Councillor Andy Izard and Councillor Sandeep Ghosh, was recognised for his unwavering commitment to keeping his neighbourhood clean and tidy every day of the week, in all weathers, helping to create a welcoming environment for the community.

Jocelyn Lawman was nominated by Councillor Sarah Sharpe for her dedication to serving the community of Boston through her role as Vice Chair Trustee of Blackfriars Arts Centre. She was commended for championing young people’s involvement in theatre through the theatre academy and schools programmes.

Judy Bee, nominated by Councillor Helen Staples, was recognised for her contribution to the wellbeing of the village of Fishtoft through her imaginative and creative post box toppers, designed to bring pleasure to the community, along with her litter picking to help keep the village clean and tidy.

Trevor Wilkinson, nominated by Councillor Callum Butler, was celebrated for his commitment to supporting the community in Old Leake through fundraising, organising local events and helping elderly neighbours with their gardens.

Margaret Harmston, nominated by Councillor Claire Rylott, received recognition for her years of dedication as leader, and later committee member, of The Chestnuts Monday Club, providing companionship and support within the community.

Suzette Gosling, nominated by Councillor Scoot, was honoured for her dedication to raising funds through her group Local Hope, creating knitted artwork that brightens her local area and supporting the wellbeing of her community.

Jackie McGlen, nominated by Councillor John Baxter, was recognised for her service to the Old Leake community through her involvement with the Parish Hall Committee, organising events, raising funds and supporting activities that bring residents together.

Asta Cerniauskaite, nominated by Councillor Lina Savickiene, received recognition for her dedication to supporting her ward by helping keep Fountain Lane, Carlton Road and Bartol Crescent clean and tidy through regular weeding, planting and care.

Denis Glenn, nominated by Councillor James Cantwell, was honoured for his extensive service through involvement with the Parish Council, Lincolnshire Association of Local Government, Fosdyke Village Hall Committee and Fosdyke Playing Fields Committee.

The event provided an opportunity for councillors to publicly thank those whose everyday efforts make a lasting difference in their communities, recognising volunteers whose work is often carried out quietly and without expectation of recognition.

Cllr Helen Staples, Portfolio Holder for Communities at Boston Borough Council said “These volunteers are the people who hold our borough together.

“They are the ones who step in without being asked, give their time without expecting thanks, and make everyday life better for those around them.

“Seeing their efforts recognised means a great deal, not just to them, but to the communities who benefit from their kindness and commitment every single day.”

Councillor Barrie Pierpoint, The Worshipful The Mayor of Boston said, “It was a privilege to be involved in last night’s event, celebrating the remarkable contributions of our volunteers and recognising the invaluable work they deliver within our community.

“It was an excellent evening, and particularly meaningful for me to be part of it during the final weeks of my mayoral duties.”