Shanklin Voluntary Youth and Community Centre receiving a cheque from Awards From All. They are also celebrating their awards from Shanklin and Sandown carnivals. Picture by Robin Crossley.
THERE was a double celebration for an Isle of Wight voluntary group, which is planning to put on new activities after receiving a grant.
As previously reported, the Shanklin Voluntary Youth and Community Centre (SVYCC) has received the Green Flag Community Award 2012 — the only Island voluntary sector organisation to win the award — as well as an Awards for All lottery grant of £9,500.
Richard Priest, SVYCC co-founder, said: "The funding will help us organise new activities for the autumn alongside our regular programme of activity, and reflects the growing demand for our centre."
The double success was marked with a visit and presentation by Island MP Andrew Turner at the group’s centre in Victoria Avenue.
SVYCC has also renovated the garden outside Shanklin Library in partnership with the Green Town initiative, which contributed to its Green Flag award.
SVYCC co-leader and Green Town volunteer, Bridget Biddlecombe, said: "The award recognises the countless litter picks, beach cleans and garden renovations all of the volunteers have been involved with. We are delighted to receive the award."
Reporter: jamiew@iwcpmail.co.uk