YOUNG volunteer Jake Norris was recognised for his work for Great Oaks Hospice at the annual fete on Saturday (June 18).

The ten-year-old has volunteered with his grandparents Joan and Richard Norris, who run the charity’s Lydney shop, for the last three years.

Celia Burton, at Great Oaks, told the Review: “Jake shows such tremendous commitment and dedication. He goes in every other Saturday morning and two days a week in the school holidays to help out. He came second in the recent Pride of the Forest awards, but we wanted to honour him ourselves.”

Jake was awarded a certificate and a voucher for a family trip to Newent Birds of Prey Centre.

Celia said: “The fete raised at least £4,500 for the hospice in Coleford, which provides palliative and supportive day care for those with life-limiting illnesses. First Clearwell and Sling Beaver Scouts helped out and we were entertained by Arabesque Belly Dancers, who meet in Coalway, and by Ross Town Band.”

Sunday (June 19) saw the Great Oaks ‘Big Picnic’ at Highnam Court which raised a further £615 to support the charity’s work.

Jenny Robertson at Great Oaks said: “The day stayed fine and was very busy. We had music from Lydbrook Training Band, Coleford Community Choir and Forest of Dean Male Voice Choir.

“Children and adults alike were entertained by Punch and Judy and magic shows on Sunday and so many people helped us over the weekend. We’d really like to thank the Forest’s many Women’s Institute groups who either volunteered at the fete or sent donations.

“Forest Rotary got involved and Forest Lions helped with car parking on Sunday. So many of our staff and volunteers came along to help and special thanks go to Peter Boyle, Chris Penny, Elaine Quirk and Toby Harris.”