GALLOWAY Action Team (GAT) was recently presented with their King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Regarded as the MBE of the voluntary sector, the highly coveted award recognises the outstanding work carried out by the Stranraer-based volunteers throughout the community.
Presenting the award, the Lord-Lieutenant for Wigtown, Aileen Brewis said: “The Galloway Action Team is an exceptional organisation that has transformed the lives of young people by training and encouraging them to carry out work that not only benefits them but has a very positive impact on our community.
“The young volunteers carry out varying jobs ranging from house clearances and tidying gardens, helping in local care homes, schools and nurseries, as well putting up and dismantling the stunning poppy weeping window display in Stranraer.
At every step, these young people are helped and encouraged by the small team of staff who work incredibly hard to find them apprenticeships, paid employment or go on to further education or training. This award is truly well deserved.”
Jackie Rae, the group’s senior project manager and founder of the charity, added: “It gives us great pleasure to accept this award in recognition of all the dedicated work our volunteers do for the people and communities of Galloway coming out on a daily basis giving up their free time to improve the lives of people less fortunate than them. Without the dedication of our volunteers GAT wouldn’t be able to function.”
In addition to receiving a domed glass crystal and a certificate signed by The King, two volunteers from the group will be invited to attend a garden party at the Palace of Holyrood in July.
