Mansfield Building Society presented its first Community Star award at its 147th AGM to Jo Scott, from Nottinghamshire Search and Rescue.

The award, presented by the society’s chairman, Jeremy Cross, recognises the dedication of volunteers and the commitment they make to benefit the community.

Nominations were received from groups who have worked with or have previously received funding through the society and its Community Support Scheme.

Jo, who received £100 in vouchers and £150 donation towards Nottingham Search and Rescue, is one of the group’s longest-serving volunteers.

The group, which relies on donations, works alongside police to search for, find and rescue missing and vulnerable people.

It is affiliated to ALSAR (Association of Lowland Search and Rescue).

In addition to being on call 24/7, Jo works hard to fundraise and conducts educational visits at schools, Cubs and Brownies groups, and at other children and young adult groups to raise awareness of lowland rescue teams.

Highly commended honours were awarded to John Dixon, from Age Concern Chesterfield, and Dave Roberts, from Rhubarb Farm, Langwith.

They were each presented with a certificate of recognition, wine and chocolates.

Jeremy said: “Every year we support community groups through funding and work in the community, but rarely do the individual volunteers running these groups receive praise for the huge amount of time and effort they put in.

“That’s why the society has decided to launch its Community Star award.”