A RECORD number of Pembrokeshire’s dedicated volunteers were celebrated at a glittering gala dinner and awards ceremony at The Queen’s Hall, Narberth.

Organised by the Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS) and proudly supported by South Hook LNG, the event shone a spotlight on the incredible contributions volunteers make to communities across the county.

The beautifully decorated venue welcomed over 140 volunteers and their guests, who enjoyed a delicious meal followed by an uplifting performance from the Pembrokeshire Pop Voices Choir.

Seven award categories recognised outstanding achievements in volunteering, with judges facing the difficult task of selecting winners from an impressive pool of nominations.

Jessica Bickerton, Chief Officer of PAVS, praised the finalists for their extraordinary commitment and impact on local communities. Mariam Dalziel, PR Manager at South Hook LNG, commented “We are so proud to be continuing our partnership with PAVS and the celebration of volunteering across Pembrokeshire. The Awards evening is a wonderful event, highlighting the many people across our County who continue to give back to their communities. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Each award was presented by a special guest, with winners receiving a specially commissioned wooden sculpture created by Norman Industries. Following the presentations, winners shared their inspiring stories in interviews with Toby Ellis of Pure West Radio, bringing to life the passion and dedication behind their volunteering journeys. The full Awards ceremony can be viewed here https://tinyurl.com/PVawards25

Finalists:

2025 Young Volunteer Award, presented: by Cllr Marc Tierney Cabinet Member for Young Persons, Community, Well-being and Future Generations

  • Winner: Alex Underwood - DofE Cymru Youth Ambassador
  • Highly Commended: Amélie Houghton - Redberth Croft CIC
  • Highly Commended: Celyn Sollis - DoFE Cymru Youth Ambassador

2025 Mike Beckett Award, presented by members of the Beckett Family, Gwen and Abi

  • Winner: Havergardd Youth Squad
  • Highly Commended – POINT Youth Forum
  • Commended - Megan's Starr Building Futures Volunteers

2025 Trustee/ Board Award, presented by Claire Incledon, Chair of Trustees at PAVS

  • Winner: Sonya Bridges – Pembrokeshire Baby Bank
  • Highly Commended: Liz Clarke - Pembrokeshire FRAME
  • Highly Commended: PPF Trustees
  • Commended – Pater Hall Trust

2025 Mary Sigley Volunteering Award, presented by Ali from Pure West Radio

  • Winner: Nikki Leatherdale - Pembrokeshire FRAME
  • Highly Commended: Jane Bain Redberth - Croft CIC
  • Commended: Alex Underwood - DofE Cymru Youth Ambassador
  • Commended: Celyn Sollis - DofE Cymru Youth Ambassador

2025 Individual over 25 Volunteering Award, presented by Mr Jamie Lewis DL, Deputy Lieutenant of Dyfed

  • Winner: Joan Stace - Manorbier and District Community Transport Association
  • Highly Commended: Gill Jones - Paul Sartori
  • Highly Commended: Trevor Morris - Pembrokeshire FRAME
  • Commended: Jane Bain - Redberth Croft CIC

The new ‘Open’ Award 2025 - Presented by Marten Lewis, Bluestone National Park Resorts

  • Winner: Living Memory Group Narberth
  • Highly Commended: Camrose AFC Coaches and Committee
  • Highly Commended: Saundersfoot Wombles
  • Commended: DPJ Hywel Davies Lorry Volunteers
  • Commended: Paul Sartori Community Choir

2025 Group over 25 Volunteering Award, presented by Adrian Cook South Hook LNG

  • Winner: Paul Sartori Events, Milford Haven & Neyland Shop Volunteers
  • Highly Commended: The ‘Golden Oldies’ Pembrokeshire FRAE
  • Commended: The Dream Team Pembrokeshire People First