National Memorial Arboretum Volunteers Honoured for Outstanding Contribution to Staffordshire with High Sheriff Award

On Thursday, 27 March, volunteers at the National Memorial Arboretum were collectively recognised for their ‘outstanding and unwavering contribution to Staffordshire’ with a High Sheriff Award. The award was presented by Julia Mitchell MA Oxon, High Sheriff of Staffordshire, at Stoke-on-Trent Town Hall.

The award acknowledges the dedication of over 250 volunteers who support the Arboretum across multiple areas, including Visitor Experience, Retail, Food Services, Estates, Events, Learning, and Marketing. In 2024, volunteers collectively donated over 50,000 hours of their time, equivalent to more than 5.5 years of non-stop effort.

“It is my great honour to award the Volunteers at the Arboretum for their outstanding contributions and commitment. Their hard work, knowledge and enthusiasm are truly commendable. Thanks to them, the Arboretum provides comfort, dignity and an exceptional visitor experience,” comments Julia Mitchell, MA Oxon High Sheriff of Staffordshire.

“Our volunteers are crucial members of our team and are at the heart of everything we do. Their passion and commitment ensure we offer a warm welcome to hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of their efforts,” said Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum Lead.

For more information about the National Memorial Arboretum and the volunteering opportunities available, visit: https://www.thenma.org.uk/.