Carolyn Keene writes:  Belated congratulations to Isle of Wight Volunteer Gary Axford (pictured) as a role model and shining example to others in winning a Best IT Volunteer Award.

Gary was selected for his work designing and delivering IT courses both at the Riverside Centre and on an IT outreach bus and has designed a number of courses for people with learning difficulties and physical disabilities.

As a wheelchair user himself, Gary has helped more that 500 people to access learning opportunities in the last 12 months. The judges believed that Gary is a role model to others and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

Islander Gary, attended the annual IT Volunteer Awards held at the The Information Technologists’ Company’s Hall in London.

When collecting his Award Gary said he was: “Well chuffed and over the moon!”

The judges commented that:  “Gary is extremely active and a stimulating hub of activity. He commendably takes pains to pass on his skills”.

John Davies, programme director of iT4C said:

“We would like to congratulate all the winners and to thank all the entrants for their dedication and hard work in the field of volunteering. It was great to see how many people are giving their time and talent to IT related projects. Hopefully the inspirational work of our entrants will encourage more people to volunteer in the future.”

The awards recognise outstanding achievement for both volunteers and charities and are held annually with the presentation in late November.

If you’re interested in nominating someone for an award watch this space for details of the 2008 awards which will be announced in July.

Isle of Wight Community News @Island Pulse.