Well deserved recognition for popular CV Life volunteer
09 July 2024
A CV Life volunteer has spoken of his ‘great surprise’ after being nominated for recognition at a prestigious celebration event last month.
Alan Aldrich a regular volunteer at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, giving up his Wednesdays for almost a decade and a half. His dedication meant that last month he was nominated to take part in the 50forWM50 - an event which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the forming of the West Midlands as an official county by recognising the amazing volunteers that help make the region a special place to live.
The event saw each of the seven districts of the West Midlands send 50 nominated volunteers to enjoy a buffet tea in the Great Hall of Birmingham University. Alan was one of the volunteers nominated to be recognised for their dedication, with one winner being picked at random to have a West Midlands tram named after them.
“The nomination was a great surprise,” admitted Alan. “The Lord Lieutenant's Office phoned me and told me about it but I’d had no indication so it was just a huge surprise and really quite humbling.”
Discussing the event, Alan continued: “The day was a great experience and the surroundings were overwhelming and impressive. As there were seven districts of the West Midlands represented, each submitting 50 individuals there were a great deal of us, together with guests.
“It was overwhelming to have been nominated as I am just one of a great many volunteers working at the Herbert - both front of house and fellow volunteers are a fantastic bunch and make my time there worthwhile.
“After 15 years of being there I still enjoy helping out where I can, either with exhibitions or launch events. The important things to me are helping visitors enjoy our fantastic museum and the other people I work with.”
Rupert Hedley who is volunteer coordinator for CV Life said: “This is great recognition for Alan who comes in once or sometimes twice a week including evenings and at weekends.
“Alan is a lovely man and is popular with staff, volunteers and visitors alike. We’re very proud of what he has achieved and we’ll be forever grateful for the dedication and passion he has shown.”