A VOLUNTEER who has unstintingly served Peebles in a variety of roles for more than 20 years has been hailed as a Community Champion.

Anne Snoddy, secretary of the town’s community council (PCC), was declared the overall winner by South of Scotland MSP Craig Hoy following a reception in the Scottish Parliament.

Ms Snoddy said: “I was taken aback but delighted to have my voluntary work recognised in this way.

“I would commend volunteering to anyone who has a couple of hours to spare each week.

“As well as making a valuable contribution to the well being of the local community or wider society it is a great way to make new friends.”

As well as her work with PCC from 2013, Ms Snoddy has worked for Peebles in Bloom, volunteered with Citizens Advice Scotland for 10 years, was a cub leader for a decade and a volunteer in the Cancer Research shop in the High Street for eight years.

In addition, during a two-year spell, from 2018 to 2020, Ms Snoddy was a director of Peebles Community Trust and since 2010 has been a stalwart at Peebles Christmas Lights Association and its secretary since 2011.

The community champions event recognises volunteers in health, well-being and sport from across the south of Scotland.

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Mr Hoy submitted a motion to members of the Scottish Parliament recognising the extensive work Ms Snoddy has carried out on behalf of the Peebles community, including eight years as PCC secretary.

Ms Snoddy was nominated by Tweeddale East councillor Julie Pirone.

Ms Pirone said: “I was absolutely delighted to nominate Anne for this award.

“She is a star of our community who has the town and local people at the heart of everything she does.

“Anne never stops, gives her time willingly and is involved in many of our organisations.

“She should rightly be celebrated for everything she does.”

Mr Hoy said: “I was thrilled to invite Anne to my community champions reception and to thank her for all of her hard work on behalf of the Peebles community.

“In her eight years as secretary of Peebles Community Council, Anne has diligently supported the people of Peebles, organising events to bring people together in the town and make a massive difference to the well-being of many residents.

“I was also delighted to welcome Neil Mason who is helping to establish a Men’s Shed in Peebles and thank him for his work in helping to tackle loneliness and social isolation in the town.”

Mr Hoy’s reception included the East Lothian Senior String Ensemble who were the winners of the Scottish Young Ensemble of the Year, as well as light refreshments and a tour of the Scottish Parliament building.