A Salford councillor who helped to feed more than 1,500 through the Covid-19 pandemic has been recognised by the King and Queen Consort as part of the official Coronation celebrations. Sammie Bellamy founded and volunteers with For The Love of Food Salford and has been recognised for her contribution and crowned a ‘Coronation Champion’.
It has been awarded by the Royal couple in conjunction with the Royal Voluntary Service. This follows a call out to the nation to nominate their volunteer heroes. Almost 5,000 entries were received, with nominations made for individuals aged 14 up to 103.
Coun Bellamy was said to impress judges with her ‘hard work and dedication, feeding more than 1,500 people per week through the Covid-19 pandemic as well as more than 500 over 65s over five days with her 5 Days of Christmas project'.
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Camilla, the Queen Consort is said to be a passionate advocate of volunteering and is president of the Royal Voluntary Service. The Coronation Champions Awards were launched to recognise exceptional volunteers from across the country at this momentous point in history.
Across the UK, 500 Champions dazzled the judging panel with the impact of their work, their inspirational stories and unwavering commitment to volunteering. All Coronation Champions, including Coun Bellamy have been invited to attend one of the official Coronation celebrations, such as the Windsor Castle Coronation Concert or a Coronation Garden Party.
They will also receive a specially designed, official Coronation Champions pin and a certificate signed by Their Majesties. Coun Bellamy said: “I am overwhelmed to receive this prestigious award.
"I love helping people and believe no one should be left behind or should have to do without that was the reason behind the creation of For The Love of Food Salford CIC (Community Interest Company).
"It’s a real honour to be recognised for hard work but none of this work would have been possible without the support of my family and friends and the amazing volunteers who have helped over the last three years or the amazing supermarkets that have donated excess food so we can feed those in need. This award is for us all."
Royal Voluntary Service chief executive Catherine Johnstone said: “We were completely blown away by the response to the Community Champions Awards and the huge volume of amazing nominees put forward.
"Our judges had a tough job selecting just 500 Champions from an array of thousands of inspirational individuals, who all deserve to be recognised and commended. “
“Each of our Coronation Champions displayed a commitment and contribution that far exceeds any expectation and we’re overjoyed to honour and thank them during this exciting point in history.”
People feeling inspired to try volunteering themselves are encouraged to take part in The Big Help Out on Monday May 8. The Big Help Out is another official Coronation project, aiming to encourage newcomers to volunteer, bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend.
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