Over 150 voluntary youth workers were shown how much their efforts are valued recently when they attended an evening in the Killyhevlin Hotel, hosted by the Western Education and Library Board's (WELB) Youth Service.

The event organised by the Fermanagh and South Tyrone Youth Service Team recognised the countless voluntary hours put in by leaders Guides, Brownies, Rainbows, Brigini, CLB, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, GB, BB ,Young Farmers Clubs, Youth Clubs, GFS(Girls Friendly Society) Gateway and St. John's Ambulance. Certificates of long-service were presented by WELB Chief Executive Barry Mulholland, Peter Aiken, Chairman of the WELB/SELB Joint Youth Committee and Vice-Chairman Thomas O'Reilly.

WELB Chief Executive Barry Mulholland said: "Since being established in 1973, the WELB Youth Service has depended heavily on volunteers. The contribution which volunteers make leads to a real and lasting difference to the lives of hundreds of children."

He added: "When I was growing up, the Youth Service changed my life and the lives of a lot of my friends. The volunteers back then, many of whom I am still friendly with today, gave so freely of their time to work with us. You, the volunteers of today continue to inspire, motivate and care for young people in your organisations. I would like to thank you for your commitment and service, and it is my sincere hope that you will continue to serve as positive role models in the lives of young people."

Throughout the evening all the volunteers enjoyed a very pleasant meal before being presented with certificates recognising five, ten and fifteen years or over volunteer service within the Youth Service.

Carole Graham First Tempo Girl Guides said:" I would like to thank the WELB Youth Service for providing us with such a wonderful evening. Everyone really appreciated the message that was coming across and it was such a nice social occasion. Well done and thank you."

Hilary Pringle Rossorry Guides said: "On behalf of Rossorry Guides I would like to send our sincere thanks to everyone involved in the WELB Youth Service's Volunteers Appreciation Night. The organisation was superb and helped us all have a truly wonderful evening - congratulations to all concerned."