By IW Observer.co.uk
The Island’s High Sheriff, Kay Marriott, visited Shanklin last weekend to meet volunteers from local organisations that provide much needed community services, and were able to maintain community support projects during the Covid lockdown.
At St Paul’s Church, she opened a new community kitchen with Rev Mark Williams, who said: “St Paul’s new Community Kitchen provides a much needed amenity for all groups, such as our youth dance school, and I’d like to thank all those involved in making the opening possible.”
Age Concern’s President, Shirley Tamekin, added: “Our volunteers kept things going during the pandemic, and we are getting back to our regular programme of affordable meals, daily activities and social outings.”
Maria Darbon, co-ordinator at Shanklin Community Library, said: “Our team of volunteers kept the library open four days a week, and projects, such as our knitted tree, highlight the different activities and services the library now provides.”
Mrs Marriott said: “It was good to meet some of the volunteers that provided Worship at Home, a Home Library for shielding lenders, and shopping delivery services during lockdown, as well as see some of their current much needed services.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our Island community and, seeing such a diverse range of dedicated individuals that make a difference on a daily basis, was heartening.”
Isle of Wight Observer