A VOLUNTEER at a community radio station in Winchester recently won a national award.

Winchester Radio volunteer Nigel Dallard won the Gold award in the Volunteer of the Year category at the National Community Radio Awards.

Nigel said: “It is fantastic that all the volunteer effort involved in community radio is recognised, especially the behind the scenes work.

“I am thrilled and honoured to receive the Volunteer of the Year Award, and feel very humbled. Congratulations to all the finalists at this year’s awards.”

The judges said about Nigel: “This person wears many different hats, and tackles the jobs that every station needs. They deserved recognition and applause for all they do.”

Following the ceremony at the weekend, Winchester Radio's Chairman, Anna O'Brien said: “All our amazing team at Winchester Radio are volunteers, giving their time and skills for free for the benefit of those in need.

“Nigel has volunteered for the charity for 34 years, and he is one of the most diligent, hardworking and altruistic people I have ever known. It is brilliant to see him get recognition for all he does.

“He has an unwavering commitment to the charity and a real 'can-do' attitude. We are very lucky to have him.”

The Community Radio Awards, now in their sixth year, is a national programme open to all Ofcom-licenced community radio stations in the UK and is designed to recognise stations and volunteers producing great quality content, and making strides to connect, support and engage with their communities. More than 430 entries were received from stations across the country.

Martin Steers, awards chair, said: “As ever, the judges tell me how impressed they are with the output of our sector, and how year on year, it steps up a level.

“It’s the second year of awards within a pandemic, but organisations like Winchester Radio have proven their value at the heart of their local areas.

“The recognition for Nigel Dallard and Winchester Radio is well deserved, and we hope it recognises their success, and encourages others to engage, represent and support their communities.”