VOLUNTEER awards have been presented to worthy Haslemere residents to mark their exceptional service to the community.

Instigated by Sir Ray Tindle, the proprietor of the Herald, the medals are given recognition of outstanding contributions by residents to the life of the town.

Six winners were presented with their medals at Haslemere Museum by mayor Sahran Abeysundara at a ceremony following the town’s annual meeting.

Recipients included David and Barbara Lightfoot, for arranging numerous holidays and outings for members of the Three Counties Association of National Trust Members and Peter Marsh for 26 years of driving the Care minibus and associated services. Also receiving medals were Dorothea Nattrass , service with Haslemere Twinning and young people through the Crusader group; Dr Keith Potter, for founding and running the Three Counties Money Advice team and Julia Tarento, who initiated and organised fund-raising for repairs to the road outside Grayshott Surgery.

Nominated by residents, an independent panel recommended those thought worthy of such an honour.

Panel chairman Hamish Donaldson introduced the candidates before Fay Foster read out the citations. Following the presentation, the successful nominees and their sponsors joined councillors and members of the public for wine and light refreshments.

Residents can now nominate extra special people for the next award ceremony to be held in November.

Forms are available from Haslemere Town Council, or online at www.haslemere.com/awards should be submitted by October 27, 2017