A Norfolk charity that helps bereaved children is celebrating its 20th birthday this year.

Eastern Daily Press: Mrs Gena Moore and Miss Hannah Harper-Newman at the awards evening. Photo: Richard Jarmy Photography smile@richardjarmy.co.ukMrs Gena Moore and Miss Hannah Harper-Newman at the awards evening. Photo: Richard Jarmy Photography smile@richardjarmy.co.uk (Image: Richard Jarmy Photography)

Nelson's Journey, has spent January by thanking volunteers for their continued support throughout its 20 years and held a volunteer awards evening at the Virgin Money Lounge in Norwich.

The evening provided the opportunity to socialise and celebrate the charity's achievements and how they are made possible only through the time and skills that are donated by volunteers.

Each volunteer was treated to fizz and crepes from Christophe's Crepes and a number of volunteers were presented with bronze, silver and gold awards for their contribution to the work of the charity.

Volunteer, Duncan Green, said: 'One of the reasons I volunteer for Nelson's Journey is that none of the children and young people the charity work with, need that support through any fault of their own.

'It never fails to amaze me how most of the children and young people feel safe enough to talk about their story and for me it's always a real privilege to be a part of their journey.'

Another volunteer, Debbie Tooke, said: 'Nelson's Journey puts smiles back on children's faces. I volunteer for the charity because children are struggling to deal and cope with their bereavement.

'They come into Nelson's Journey and through their services they get the support that they need and this aids and helps them to be able to better deal with their bereavement.'

A special award was introduced for 2018 to recognise an outstanding contribution of support, named 'the Christie Witham award'. This award is dedicated in memory of a passionate volunteer who died in 2016. It was awarded to Marion Bird who has volunteered for the charity on over 100 occasions.

Simon Wright, chief executive of the charity, said: 'Throughout our 20 year history the contribution made by volunteers has been enormous. We simply wouldn't exist today without our skilled volunteers who contribute to the charity in so many ways.

'They are the charity's lifeblood, enabling us to deliver a range of therapeutic services across the county. Their efforts are massively appreciated and it's brilliant to be able to celebrate their achievements.'