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FOREST VOLUNTEER AWARDS IT'S VOTING TIME!
The PUBLIC VOTE is now OPEN for Volunteer of the Year 2026 - The People's Champion!
VOTING CLOSES: MIDNIGHT THURSDAY 27 AUGUST 2026
We had so many fantastic nominations, with every one a worthy winner BUT after much deliberation our judging panel shortlisted the following local volunteers:
Find out why these amazing volunteers were nominated below:
JULIE ABOLINS
CANDI
Julie gives to the community unconditionally, supporting everyone who walks through CANDI's (Cinderford Area Neighbourhood Development Initiative) doors.
LEWIS CHAPMAN
Brody's Trust
Lewis is a volunteer trustee at Brody's Trust who goes above and beyond, helping manage projects across renovation, maintenance, IT, governance and more.
ALICE HOGG
Wye Valley Music
Alice is a driving force behind Wye Valley Music and a dedicated Music for Memories Ambassador, creating opportunities for people living with dementia to experience the joy and connection music brings.
She has helped set up a multitude of groups — coffee mornings, lunch clubs, mental health support, children's groups, safe spaces and homework clubs — reaching every corner of the community. She was the driving force behind the weekly Women's Space, a welcoming environment for women who have experienced domestic abuse to share experiences and meet new people. She exudes empathy, understanding and commitment in everything she does, while also supporting her team of volunteers. Julie truly deserves recognition for her immeasurable contribution to CANDI and the wider community.
Despite running his own business full-time in Bristol, he travels up at least once a week and most weekends to work in the hub — running cables, breaking down walls, painting, and chasing contractors. He had no prior links to Brody's Trust; he simply heard the story and jumped in. Quiet and unseeking of recognition, Lewis's practical skills and unwavering dedication have been vital to developing the charity's facilities and supporting its growth.
Her personal lived experience of dementia gives her a unique ability to connect with individuals and families, focusing on the person rather than the condition. Through performances and community sessions across St Briavels and beyond, Alice has built welcoming, inclusive spaces where people with dementia, carers and families can come together with dignity and respect. Her warmth and leadership have inspired a strong, committed volunteer team.
ANNE LAMACRAFT
Forest of Dean Baby Bank
Anne is a force of nature whose compassion and drive inspire everyone around her. She consistently goes above and beyond for the families the Forest of Dean Baby Bank supports.
JANE OSBORNE
Tiny Spikes Hedgehog Rescue
For a species fighting for survival, Jane Osborne is a lifeline. She set up Tiny Spikes Hedgehog Rescue in Lydney, drawing on expertise gained volunteering at another rescue before striking out on her own.
CLAIRE SMEETH
Drybrook Rugby Club & Forest Health Forum
Claire is a longstanding and committed member of the committee at Drybrook Rugby Club, giving her time and energy generously to the club's success.
Stepping in without being asked whenever volunteers are away or unwell, Anne is brilliant at taking initiative and simply getting things done, filling gaps quietly and reliably. Her commitment has made a real difference to the organisation, and the Forest of Dean Baby Bank has benefited enormously from having her on board. Anne's dedication and can-do spirit make her a truly deserving nominee for this award.
It's a demanding role — long hours, personal sacrifice, and total dedication to the spiky bundles in her care. Her rescue filled a vital gap, as there hadn't been one in this part of the Forest of Dean for around seven years. Jane saves local residents a long journey with a sick hedgehog, and her selfless commitment to wildlife welfare makes her a wonderful nominee.
She has also served tirelessly as volunteer secretary for the Forest Health Forum, acting as a valuable sounding board for its committee. Claire's steady support has been especially important through the Forum's recent transition, helping keep it running and representative for people across the Forest of Dean. Her dual commitment across two very different community organisations reflects a genuine dedication to service that thoroughly deserves recognition.