A volunteer from Mansfield was posthumously named a winner in the MS Society’s first ever Impact Awards — a celebration of the positive effect volunteers have on people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS).

Tom Sykes, who unexpectedly died earlier this year at 67, was one of 18 volunteers nominated for their contribution and won the Connecting Impact Award.

More than 130,000 people live with MS in the UK and without volunteers’ time and energy, it would be impossible for the MS Society to deliver its services and support.

Nominated in the Connecting category, and shortlisted by a panel of volunteers, Tom saved the Mansfield MS Society group from near closure around five years ago.

Along with his nephew, Ash Sykes, who lives with MS, Tom became group coordinator. The group has since flourished and become a place where young and old across the MS community in Mansfield feel connected.

Tom was the driving force behind the group and set up an information hub in the Four Seasons Shopping Centre, Mansfield, for people to access support, talk, and meet others living with MS.

He was also at the forefront of many fundraising ideas for the group, from tombolas and fairs, to collections at Mansfield Town FC and charity bike rides at a hospital. During lockdown Tom’s weekly online quizzes became very popular and kept the MS community connected.

Ash, who accepted the award in tribute to Tom, said: “It’s amazing. Tom wouldn’t be one to accept any recognition for the impact he had on people’s lives, but he’d be smiling from ear to ear. He left a big hole in our lives.

“Tom got involved because I live with MS and he felt like he needed to do something to help me.

“He went above and beyond to save the group and organise social events and trips away. He had a real passion for the group.

“We’re all so proud of him. If it wasn’t for him the group wouldn’t be here today, supporting so many people.”

Nick Moberly, chief executive of the MS Society, added: “We are delighted to be celebrating his achievements at the first MS Society Impact Awards.”

The awards were hosted by MS Society ambassador and DJ Scott Mills. Celebrity guests included Dragons Den’s Deborah Meaden, Paralympian Kadeenda Cox and chef Tom Kerridge.