Joan is presented with lifetime award for volunteer work

Joan is presented with lifetime award for volunteer work

17 September 2014

A VOLUNTEER with the Newcastle Parent and Toddler Group has been presented with a prestigious award in recognition of her 27 years’ service with the organisation.

Joan Devlin was presented with a lifetime achievement award by the Early Years organisation during a gala dinner held recently at the Templepatrick Hotel.

Joan was presented with her honour by Lady Moyra Campbell in recognition of her hard work and commitment over almost three decades.

While delighted to receive the award, Joan said the honour would not have been bestowed on her had it not been for the support of her committee and volunteers.

“The Newcastle group is a great place for new parents, grandparents and childminders to meet with their kids,” continued Joan.

“A lot of friendships begin here; friendships that continue through school and beyond. Many of the mothers from years ago have now returned as grandmothers which is great to see but their first reaction is always ‘Joan you are not still here.’”

Joan said said she finds the group she has been closely associated with for almost 30 years “extremely rewarding.”

She continued: “I love it when a child paints a picture and says it’s for me and I love to catch up with the kids as they progress to adulthood. We all stay in touch.

“The Parent and Toddler Group has many toys for children aged between 0 and 4, ranging from books, jigsaws, paints and dressing-up clothes.  There is music and we have tea, coffee and healthy snacks for the children.”

Joan explained that during the year, there are parties at Halloween, Christmas and at the end of term, with visits taking place to Coco’s which is opened especially for the little ones.

“We have an annual family day to Streamvale Farm and to end the term the mums have a few nights out including a meal. We also organise pub quizzes as part of our fundraising,” she added.

The parent and toddler group is based at the Newcastle Centre every Friday morning between 9.45am and 11.15am and recommences this Friday, September 19.