Vara supports Friends of Somersham Library in bid for Queen's Award

Shailesh Vara visited the Friends of Somersham Library (FOSL) yesterday, Thursday, 21st September. Mr Vara met with committee members to show his support for their bid for the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

Shailesh Vara, MP for North West Cambridgeshire, visited the Friends of Somersham Library (FOSL) yesterday, Thursday, 21st September. Mr Vara met with committee members to show his support for their bid for the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.

The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service is given for outstanding achievement by groups of volunteers who: regularly devote their time to helping others in the community; improve the quality of life and opportunity for others; provide an outstanding service.

FOSL have been nominated for the 2007 awards by local District Councillor Steve Criswell, who will be joining Mr Vara on his visit. Mr Vara has formally backed the bid by acting as one of the two supporters needed to nominate a voluntary group under the Award's procedures.

FOSL sprang into action at the end of 2002 when the library was threatened with closure. The group initially worked to oppose the closure but when it was marked down to be shut they then set out to ensure a library facility would be retained. They set up a library service of their own, which is run by some 50 local volunteers. As well as the usual library service for adults, other activities are provided such as a story-time reading group for toddlers during the term time, community internet access, an information centre and a fortnightly large-print book delivery service for the over 60s.

Mr Vara said:

"I am delighted to support the Friends of Somersham Library in their bid for the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. They provide a vital service to the residents of Somersham and the surrounding area and thoroughly deserve the recognition. I hope that this bid proves to be successful."

Photo:Vara supports Friends of Somersham Library in bid for Queen's Award