A volunteer has been recognised for his contribution to help people from all walks of life access regular exercise in Dunblane – including vulnerable members of the community.
Mike has been recognised as the winner of Dementia Friendly Walking Volunteer of the Year at Paths for All’s Volunteer Awards 2022.
The 70-year-old is a Health Walk volunteer with Active Stirling -a sports and leisure charitable trust- and has been dedicated to keeping the community active for over seven years.
Mike carries out a weekly health walk welcoming and accommodating people from all walks of life – and regardless of individual requirements he is always the first to say we can accommodate.
After retiring six years ago, Mike wanted to give back to the community and his motivation was strengthened after he saw the direct positive changes walking can have when a close friend living with dementia joined.
Mike said: “Coming together for a weekly walk can have such profound effect on someone’s life.
“Living with dementia can be lonely so it was important and from this we were focused on making the group as diverse and inclusive as possible ensuring everyone felt comfortable to come together and socialise.
“It’s brilliant to be recognised for this award and is a testament to the hard work of the team of walkers and five walk leaders that all help to make the walks such success with Active Stirling. I’m also proud to be contribution to Dunblane being recognised as the second most dementia friendly town in Scotland.”
The Stirling man was commended at the awards ceremony which returned to an in-person event after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Mike was among 11 different winners at the 13th annual Volunteer Awards that highlighted the outstanding work carried out by volunteers across the country.
Laura Taylor, Physical Activity Inclusion Officer, said: “Active Stirling would like to congratulate Mike on winning this prestigious award. It's recognition for the efforts and commitment he's shown over the past 7 years. We would like to thank him and all the other walk leaders who continue to deliver and support our weekly walks in the local communities within the Stirling area."