THE SPOTLIGHT has been shone on hard-working staff and volunteers who dedicate their time to a hospice charity.

The 70 volunteers and 40 staff gathered for a garden party to celebrate their work at St Vincent's Hospice.

The group were presented with long-service awards by Lindsey Ferries, who is a board trustee in the hospice’s community garden in Howwood.

The award-winners and guests enjoyed tropical ‘mocktails’ in the sun and supported their fellow volunteers as they received their certificates and medals.

Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall said: “St Vincent’s undertake magnificent work in Renfrewshire and this can only be carried out thanks to their dedicated workforce.

“I’m delighted to see them being rewarded for their hard work and commitment and I will continue to support the organisation through my charity fundraising scheme to help maintain this outstanding level of care.”

Lindsey, a volunteer board member herself, said “It has been a huge privilege over the last nine months to support the work of this wonderful facility. It is also fitting that we are having a garden party- marking the one year anniversary of the opening of our beautiful garden.

“We express thanks to our volunteers who support the Hospice’s work in so many ways – in our retail stores and café, in our Day Hospice, in our housekeeping and kitchen teams and in administration and reception. Most importantly, we thank them for being the face of St Vincent’s Hospice to the general public, who otherwise may not know about our work”.

Elaine Grealey, Volunteer Services Manager, added: “What a lovely celebration and a fitting tribute, during Volunteers Week, to honour and thank all our volunteers- especially our long-serving award recipients who have been with our hospice between five and 23 years.

“By giving their time and skills, the contribution these people make is immeasurable. Our hospice provides a very special service to the people of Renfrewshire and it is especially inspiring to have so many wonderful people in the volunteer team.”

Volunteering at St Vincent’s is a rewarding experience and with many different roles available.

If you have some time and would like to contribute, please get in touch with Elaine or Christine on 01505 705635 or e-mail volunteering@svh.co.uk.