A TEENAGER who gives up his time to help the Great Oaks Hospice has been honoured for his ‘hard work and selfless support.”
Thirteen-year-old Jake Norris has been a familiar face at the Great Oaks shop in the town for some six years where he volunteers on alternate Saturdays.
Last week he was one of two young people to receive a Nairac youth award in a ceremony at Gloucester Cathedral.
The awards are named in honour of Captain Robert Nairac, who was murdered by terrorists.
Jake was presented with a silver salver, a commemorative certificate and a cheque for £200 – which he will donate to Great Oaks.
The presentation was made by the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire Edward Gillespie during the Royal Society of St George’s annual service.
Chair of the Gloucestershire branch, Pat Ayres said: “On World Hospice Day last year he raised £110 by setting up a cake stall at the Hospice’s shop in Lydney and he continues to help at the shop on a regular basis.
“He has been described as ‘an absolute credit to the town of Lydney’.
“The hospice was heavily involved in helping to care for Jake’s great-grandmother and his family are rightly proud of his hard work and caring nature, which has been recognised by his nomination for this award.”
Jake said he was privileged to have received the award in honour of Captain Nairac, who was awarded a posthumous George Cross.
He said: “It was a fantastic experience and I’m proud to be able to present the award cheque of £200 to Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice.
“It will go some way to help others in the area to receive invaluable help at critical times in their lives.”
Mrs Ayres said: “For many years now the branch has recognised exceptional Gloucestershire youngsters through the Nairac Awards presented every year at our St George’s
Day Service.
“The two young people receiving the 2019 Awards are inspirational and have set excellent examples by working selflessly to support others.”