RGNS chair receives Rotary community award

Oonagh Walsh has been presented with a Rotary Community Service Award to acknowledge her work as chairperson of the Reepham Good Neighbour Scheme.
 

Oonagh Walsh. Photo: RHSC

 
Presenting the award at an online meeting of the Reepham & District Rotary Club on 18 January, club president Tony Williams said: “To describe Oonagh’s role simply as chairperson is not adequate to explain the level of involvement, inventiveness, support and motivation she has provided, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
 
“She took on the lead role in setting up a large team of low-vulnerability volunteers to help local people during lockdown, with befriending and deliveries of food and prescriptions.
 
“Of particular note, she was always ready to step in herself when volunteers could not be scheduled.”
 
Set up seven years ago, the RGNS was at the forefront in helping the community when the Covid crisis struck and has continued to provide vital services as needs have evolved.
 
A dedicated phone line was set up, 60 volunteers recruited and teams set up to support many of the most vulnerable in and around Reepham.
 
“Many other individuals have given unstinting support to the scheme and the club wishes to acknowledge them all,” said Mr Williams.
 
“But it is to their leader, Oonagh, in recognition of this, that this award is made as thanks for gathering, steering and motivating the team to achieve their aims to such benefit to so many.”
 

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