VOLUNTEERING charity Engage has again been celebrating the contribution volunteers make in their communities across West Somerset and Taunton Deane.

Each year, the charity chooses volunteers of the year for each area, and last Friday a special awards ceremony was held at Halsway Manor, timed to coincide with National Volunteers Week.

Previously, each area had its own awards ceremony, but they were combined for the first time this year into one event.

For the West Somerset area, the individual volunteer of the year was Richard Seale, who volunteers behind the scenes at the Regal Theatre in Minehead.

He was nominated by Ray Tew for his work in maintaining and improving the electrical systems within the building, as well as monitoring health and safety needs, all of which enables the theatre to continue running.

“Many of the roles within the theatre have immediate impact and recognition, but Richard’s work goes on quietly year in, year out without fanfare or celebration,” said Ray.

The group award went to the team of volunteers at West Somerset Advice and were nominated by their manager, Susan Clowes, and the environmental award, which is sponsored by Exmoor National Park Authority, went to Exmoor’s Historic Signposts volunteers, nominated by Charlotte Thomas.

Of the three award winners, Richard went on to be named overall volunteer of the year for West Somerset.

For the full report, including details of Taunton Deane winners and those who won highly commended certificates, see tomorrow’s Free Press.