A tireless volunteer who ‘embodies everything wonderful about community spirit’ has scooped a prestigious regional award and earned £1,000 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Roy Grage, 77, received his prize from Churchill Living, through its nationwide Local Hero Awards initiative, with the donation coming from its own charity, the Churchill Foundation.
Churchill operates the Mere Lodge and Hartismere Mews retirement apartments and cottages, in Diss, where Roy was invited for a presentation. The awards celebrate the positive contribution of older people across the country who are making a difference in their community.
Roy, who was nominated by neighbour Gill Egan, has been supporting EACH for over a decade and is a key figure within The Nook Friends group – a band of loyal supporters who have raised £234,000 since being formed in 2014.
EACH Senior Community Fundraiser Natasha Butler was on hand to congratulate Roy and made a speech during a special ceremony at Mere Lodge.
“Roy’s truly extraordinary and one of our most cherished volunteers,” she said.
“His spirit, dedication and quiet determination make him the perfect volunteer, and, over the years, he’s been there for it all – the early mornings, the late nights, the talks and the cheque presentations.
“He’s a constant presence at everything from quiz nights and car shows to golf days and fetes and a regular at our fortnightly coffee and cake mornings at The Nook.
“He brings warmth and joy to his role, while being an informative voice for EACH, and nothing’s ever too much trouble for Roy.
“Quite simply, we couldn’t do what we do without people like him.
“He makes our work possible and embodies everything wonderful about community spirit.”
Gill found out about the awards after reading an article in the local press and decided to nominate Roy, who lives in Poringland, near The Nook.
“My work with EACH is very close to my heart, both for me and my wife, Janet,” said Roy.
“Over the years, we’ve seen first-hand the incredible difference the hospice makes to children and their families, and it’s been a privilege to play a small part in supporting that.
“We’re always looking for new ways to raise funds, so this generous donation will make a real impact. I’m honoured to be recognised as Norfolk’s Local Hero, but the real heroes are the children, families, staff and volunteers at EACH who inspire me every day.”
