Mansfield Building Society has launched the search for its 2020 Community Star. Groups and charities from across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire are encouraged to nominate volunteers who deserve recognition for their dedication and commitment to improving the lifestyle and wellbeing of those living in the area.

The award, now entering its fourth year, recognises the selfless hard work that volunteers give to their chosen group or cause.

This year’s winner will receive £100 Love2shop vouchers as well as a £150 donated to the charity or group they represent. The winner will be crowned at the Society’s Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, 28th April in The Auditorium at Mansfield Library.

Last year saw 1st Huthwaite Scout Group’s Julie Copestake awarded the accolade for her 15 years of dedication to scouting. A special recognition award also went to Brenda Stockdale, for her work with The Oaklands Centre, Warsop, spanning more than 35 years!

Previous winners have also included Sara Spalding, for her tireless work supporting the homeless in Mansfield; Jo Scott, a volunteer First Responder who saved the life of a stranded walker suffering with dementia; and Richard Walker, a long-serving boxing coach who has devoted much of his life to encourage others in the sport he adores.

As a mutual building society, The Mansfield is dedicated to supporting local charities and community groups, by offering financial aid through its Charitable Trust and Community Support Scheme. The Society also encourages staff volunteering through its Work in the Community initiative, and this year the Society is committed to donating 150 days in recognition of its 150th anniversary.

Commercial development executive Richard Crisp spoke of the importance of these awards, saying:
“As a building society, we pride ourselves on the service we provide, not just to our Members, but also to the community in which we serve.

“As a responsible corporate citizen we’ve been supporting the local community now for over 150 years and we have no intention of stopping any time soon!

“So, we’re looking for those extraordinary people who go the extra mile, like us, to make a positive difference to the lives and wellbeing of those who live within our Heartland Area. We want the chance to celebrate these amazing people, their achievements and their contribution to the community.”

Charities and community groups can nominate their ‘Community Star’ via the Society’s website mansfieldbs.co.uk/community-star

Closing date for nominations is midnight Tuesday 31 March 2020.

Pictured is 2019 Community Star award winner Julie Copestake, of 1st Huthwaite Scout Group.