"MEET the family. God Bless them all."
That was the praise given to the volunteers of The Goodwill Motorists who make friends with the infirm, housebound and disabled and give them a "second life".
Co-founder of the charity Dora Beales was cheered for her leadership of the group, which has provided a lifeline to hundreds of people thanks to the dedication of its members. The volunteers were thanked for giving a total of 288 years – with some giving more than 30 – to needy people in the community.
They were honoured at an awards ceremony at Welholme Community Primary School to mark 51 years of the charity. Dora said: "They all fill a niche and fulfil a need. We could not do without them.
"They are fantastic.
"They are so helpful and kind to those less fortunate than themselves.
"They look after the housebound, infirm and bring joy.
"God bless them all."
Certificates of long-service were presented by The Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor Peggy Elliott.
She said: "It is remarkable. It is all due to Dora.
"She has wonderful volunteers, some with more than 30 years service. That goes well beyond the call of duty.
"These people change lives. They go into people's homes and look after those who can't get out.
"They go into their homes and give them a second life."
Among those honoured were Marlene Allman, who has given 19 years of service.
Edna Codd was praised for her 28 years of "all round reliability" to the charity.
Gordon Green and Jack Hinchcliffe, with 25 years service, were applauded for their contribution.
Michael Holmes was hailed a "great helper".
Both Audrey Kerr and Karen King have dedicated ten years with the charity and Margaret Lord and David Phillips have given years of service.
Angela Wilson was congratulated for being "helpful in any emergency".
Among the longest-serving members, whose years of charitable work were announced, were Kenneth Sykes, 24 years, John Shelston, 18 years, Terry Thurogood, 35 years, Robert Ward, 18 years, Elsa Dixon, 24 years and Carole Wilson with ten years.
Dora also congratulated Norman Viving for completing eight years with the group.
Dora thanked Daniel Stewart for nominating her for a volunteer of the year award.
The 87-year-old chairman of
Goodwill Motorists won the older volunteer of the year award last year.
Volunteers were entertained by music and dance from primary school pupils.
ON THE WEB: Let us know how you have been helped by the charity by visiting www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk
