MORE than 50 of Surrey’s unsung heroes were recognised for their “incredible work” at an event staged by county council chairman Sally Marks.

The event in Dorking saw volunteers given a certificate and a specially commissioned chairman’s medal that was struck at Pobjoy Mint. Among those receiving awards was Jenny Silvester from Churt who was nominated by county councillor David Harmer.

Jenny has been the the Monday organiser for Churt Community Centre since 2006, and supervises a team of volunteers who provide transport to and from the community centre as well as setting up, serving the lunches and clearing up afterwards. She also acts as the back-up cook when required.

Another award winner was Carol McFarlane, from Farnham, who was nominated by county councillor Denise Le Gal. Carol teaches computer and numeracy skills to lone parents who live on the Sandy Hill Estate.

Surrey County Council chairman Sally Marks said: “It was great to be able to thank so many wonderful volunteers for their incredible work in their communities. I was moved to hear so many examples of selfless dedication and amazed to learn just how long some of the volunteers had been serving.

“Many of them seemed surprised to receive such recognition – humility being another common trait among volunteers. Our county is richer for having such dedicated people helping to make Surrey the wonderful place it is.”