Gateway awarded special award

High Sheriff rewards local charities

Voluntary organisations and people in Basildon and Thurrock who contribute to safety and crime prevention in their local community have been given well deserved recognition at the prestigious High Sheriffs’ Awards.

More than 40 voluntary and community organisations were represented at this year’s ceremony held at Hylands House in Chelmsford where trophies, certificates and grants totalling £25,804 were presented by the outgoing High Sheriff of Essex, Lorna Rolfe.

The grants came from the High Sheriffs’ Fund, which is managed by the independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation (ECF).

Gateway Community Media – Gateway 97.8 were presented with a High Sheriffs’ certificate for their ongoing work of promoting community safety through educational advertisements. The adverts are made by local school children during safety workshops and tackle issues of road safety and fire safety.

Foundation 66 were awarded the Volunteer Centres Essex Award for their sterling work supporting their volunteers and making them feel valued.

East Thurrock Community Association were also recognised and received £750 to install a key card door entry system at the Community Hall.

Lorna Rolfe, who is the 836th High Sheriff of Essex, has travelled to all areas of the county during her year of office. As well as visiting a great many voluntary organisations, she visited the Courts and spent time with Essex Police, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and the Ambulance Service.

She said, “It has been my privilege to spend time with all the organisations that look after our well-being. I have been warmly welcomed and have been constantly struck by their ‘can do’ approach to the many challenges they face.”

She paid tribute to the voluntary sector in Essex, “During my time as High Sheriff I have had the opportunity to meet members of the voluntary sector who tackle a wide range of issues. I have been so impressed that accentuating the positive appears to be their everyday motto and have been amazed and humbled at what they accomplish against all the odds.

“They really do make a difference and can dramatically change the lives of others for the better.”

The High Sheriff with Gateway 97.8 Danny Lawrence