People who have made a major contribution to community safety and crime prevention in County Durham have been given well deserved recognition and thanks at the prestigious High Sheriff Awards ceremony.

A group who work tirelessly in Consett to help young people build a positive future and an organisation that helps young people in Shildon become good citizens were amongst eight voluntary groups who received awards at the High Sheriff Awards ceremony at Durham Castle on Wednesday (30th March).

Certificates and grants totalling £11,500 were presented by the High Sheriff of Durham, James Fenwick.

This year, the High Sheriff of Durham, James Fenwick, worked in partnership with the Sir James Knott Trust and County Durham Community Foundation to spearhead the prestigious awards.
James paid tribute to the voluntary groups for their ground-breaking and life-changing community work across County Durham. 

He said: “An important part of the role of the High Sheriff is to recognise and promote the voluntary sector and celebrate their magnificent work – particularly those that make County Durham a better and safer place to live.

“Voluntary groups are a crucial part of our society. They play an essential role in the wellbeing of the county and one of the most rewarding aspects of the High Sheriff’s year is to see them in action. 

“I have seen, first-hand, the wonderful work carried out by these organisations, often by people who seek no reward for themselves and whose sole motivation is to support others. It is a pleasure and a privilege to help give them the recognition they so richly deserve”.

Mark I’Anson, Chairman of County Durham Community Foundation added: “The High Sheriff’s Fund is a valuable financial resource for the voluntary sector in County Durham. We are delighted to manage the fund this year – working with the High Sheriff and the Sir James Knott Trust to ensure that greater support can be given to people in the county who are tackling important crime prevention issues at a local level.”

Vivien Stapley from the Sir James Knott Trust said: “We are delighted to be involved in the Durham High Sheriff Awards which recognises and rewards the achievements of voluntary groups. These awards are so important as they value community initiatives which address crime, community safety and anti-social behaviour” added Vivien.