Havering Museum's volunteer receives special youth award

Volunteers from London's museums have been commended for their commitment, dedication and hard work at the 2011 London Volunteers in Museums Awards.

In an awards ceremony at the Museum of London on Monday 6 June, Chloe Branwhite volunteering at Havering was awarded the winners prize in the Special Youth Award.

Chloe has been volunteering at Havering Museum since February 2010. Her focus has been around cleaning and recording the objects in the Museum's collections and conducting research as part of the forthcoming exhibition's programme. Chloe has grown and developed in confidence. She contributes so much to the collections and meetings, as demonstrated by her work on the exhibitions project. Her commitment to the Museum along with her interest in local history makes her a valuable member of the team.

The awards recognise and celebrate the work of the dedicated volunteers that support the capital's museums. They work across a range of museum departments, helping enhance the visitor experience, develop collections knowledge and provide vital support to staff.

"I am delighted that Chloe has gained the Award. All the Museum Volunteers deserve thanks for their work during the past year, but Chloe's painstaking devotion to the collection of blacksmiths tools is particularly commendable" said Ian Wilkes, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Other team members were recognised for their work at Havering Museum. Keith Martin, Front-of-House Team leader on Saturdays was a runner up in the 'Going the extra mile' award. Michelle Johansen the former Outreach Development Office received highly commended in the 'Supporting, Managing, and Encouraging Volunteers' award.