Volunteer wins community award

Proud volunteer Sheila Needham, from Royston in Hertfordshire, was recently announced as Health Worker of the Year 2008.

Sheila has been a member of St John Ambulance Hertfordshire, Royston Division for 41 years, and was recently recognised as a shining example to others in the Cambridge News’ Community Awards.

The glittering event was held at Homerton College in Cambridge and recognised the efforts of inspirational individuals and outstanding organisations.

Sheila was nominated for the accolade by a former colleague and commended for her outstanding contribution to the community as a longstanding and important member of St John Ambulance. In addition to a dazzling cut-glass trophy, Shelia also received a three-night hotel break in Edinburgh.

She said: ‘It was an incredible feeling to be nominated for this award, and to see so many people commended for their service to the community was truly awe inspiring. I was very excited and honoured to receive this award.’

After initially joining the division as a nursing officer, Sheila worked as a first aid trainer and continued to volunteer as a member upon retiring from her nursing career.

Paul Brackley, the editor of the Cambridge News, co-presented the event with group editor-in-chief Colin Grant. Paul said: ‘The people collecting these awards are genuine unsung heroes in the community. We are extremely pleased to be able to honour them.’