SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Nominations for 2017 Gold Star awards have opened

NOMINATIONS have now opened for South Somerset District Council’s prestigious annual Gold Star awards.

The red carpet will be rolled out for young people and the unsung volunteers who work with them when the council’s Gold Star awards return to the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil on Monday, October 23, 2017.

The event, which is now in its 11th year, aims to showcase the breadth of talented, caring and hardworking young people as well as the volunteers who enable them to reach their full potential.

Last year in excess of 500 people enjoyed a roller coaster ride of emotions and inspiration at the show held at the Octagon Theatre.

Steve Barnes, the young people’s officer at South Somerset District Council, explained more about the idea behind the event.

“We realise that so many volunteers give up hours of their own time to help young people in South Somerset,” he said. “The Gold Star awards celebrate the incredible work that volunteers do as well as the remarkable young people themselves.

“Although there are nine awards to give out, the trophies are only a small part of what the Gold Star Awards are all about. This event aims to inspire other young people and volunteers by showing what a difference they can make to their communities and we are urging people to nominate their unsung hero now.”

The event itself will showcase the wide array of talent on show in the district and acts will include Orchard Gymnastics from Yeovil, Castle Cary and Ansford Amateur Theatrical Society and martial arts from Kuk Sool Won in Yeovil.

Cllr Sylvia Seal, the council’s leisure and culture spokesman, said: “The Gold Star awards always highlight just how many young people are making positive contributions towards their communities. Through training and financial support South Somerset District Council is committed to supporting young people year round and this awards ceremony is our reward for so many local heroes.

“Without these dedicated volunteers, coaches and young people many of the rural villages would not have the clubs, facilities and activities that are so integral to their communities.

“This event is about giving something back to these people as well as sharing some remarkably inspirational stories.”

People can nominate by visiting www.southsomerset.gov.uk/goldstars. Alternatively email helen.sharpe@southsomerset.gov.uk for a paper nomination form.

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