NATIONAL Health Service volunteers were celebrated recently at a special event organised by Sharon Linnard, the high sheriff of Gwent.

"It was an opportunity to say thank you to all the NHS volunteers who are making a huge difference," Mrs Linnard said.

Among the recipients of the High Sheriff's Awards were five members of the Age Cymru Gwent Robins Service.

There are around 60 volunteer Robins working in nine wards at St Woolos and the Royal Gwent hospitals, including the emergency department at the latter.

Alan Hiatt was recognised for three years of voluntary work at the County Hospital, Torfaen, where he supports patients, organises activities, and maintains the ward garden.

Tyron Stevenson has volunteered for Blood Bikes Wales for six years, serving as secretary, trustee, and head of social media.

Carol Wheeler has spent more than five years volunteering for Memory Services, by holding fundraising events and hosting activities for carers. She was recently awarded a British Empire Medal for her work.

Volunteer artist Shaun Ray runs weekly 'musicpainting' groups for dementia patients in Chepstow and has helped people's interest in art to blossom.

Des and Carol Hillman were awarded for more than 15 years service to the League of Friends in Blaenau Gwent, running a charity shop, supporting fete days, and giving many hours to benefit patients.

Since training in September 2017, Aled Soos has attended more than 360 '999' calls in his role as a community first responder for the ambulance service.

And for six years, Helen Atton has visited St Woolos' Sycamore Ward with her dogs, lifting patients' spirits and staff morale.

If you are interested in volunteering with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, contact: Rhian Lewis, volunteering development manager, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Llanfrechfa Grange, Cwmbran, Torfaen NP44 8YN.