HARD work and countless, selfless hours which are helping to make a positive difference in Oldham, were celebrated by a charity which has more than stepped up to the mark.

Positive Steps held its second annual volunteer celebration evening at its Medtia Place headquarters, welcoming special guests including Oldham Mayor, Cllr Shadab Qumar.

The mayor presented certificates of achievement to each volunteer and there were five recipients of special awards.

Positive Steps chief executive, Steph Bolshaw, presented those to Andy Mitzi who received Volunteer of the Year 2017; Sue Beesley for the Exceptional Service accolade; Philip Miller for Outstanding Contribution; Karen Guinnane was given the Inspiration Award and Ian Field was awarded New Volunteer 2017.

Volunteers were also given the chance to nominate Positive Steps employees for the support they have given them throughout the year with Pam Harewood, Danny Aspin and Debra Geoghegan receiving recognition. The mayor also sprung a special surprise on the evening, donating £1,000 from his charity to the Oldham Young Carers programme, an award-winning service run by Positive Steps that could not operate without its tireless volunteers.

Volunteer manager Martin Sutton, who was highly commended in the volunteer manager of the year category at the recent North West Charity Awards, said: “I couldn’t be more proud of the work our volunteers do here at Positive Steps.

“All the staff appreciate what a contribution they give and actively encourage them to get involved. In 2017 alone the hours that volunteers gave free of charge equates to over £60,000. That’s incredible and tonight is our chance to say ‘thank you’.”

Positive Steps has volunteering opportunities across the organisation.

If you are interested in getting involved, contact Martin or email volunteering@positive-steps.org.uk.