Bishopstone woman is volunteer of the year

Archived press release

Date Published: 18/08/09

Councillor Janet Blake (left) and Barbara Fowle (right)

A Bishopstone resident has won Aylesbury Vale District Council’s prestigious Volunteer of the Year award for outstanding community work.

Barbara Fowle, of Furlong Crescent, received her award from Chairman of the Council, Councillor Janet Blake, at the Gateway offices in Aylesbury.

The annual awards scheme, now in its 10th year, recognises and rewards the efforts of people who go out of their way voluntarily to help others. They are nominated by members of the public and the final judging is made by a cross-party panel of councillors.

Unsung hero Barbara has been running the Bishopstone Toddler Group for the past 15 years. She also volunteers for the local church, organises the village's annual carol concert and helps support fundraising events.

Barbara was nominated for the Volunteer of the Year award by her friend Samantha Rogers. Samantha said: “She is a constant source of support for so many young mums, bringing us together to share experiences. She has played a huge part in the lives of our children and gives a huge amount of her time to help others without thinking of her own needs.”

Runner-up was David Garner from Stoke Hammond. David was nominated for the work he does for the Stoke Hammond Sports Club.

Councillor Pam Pearce, Cabinet Member for Community Matters at AVDC, said: “This year’s nominations were of an outstanding standard, and every single person nominated should feel very proud of their accomplishments. It is heart-warming to find so many people who work hard, without thought for themselves, to make life better for those around them.”