FORMER social worker Shirley Cuthew knows what a crucial role volunteers play in the community.

As the company secretary of Colchester Carers Centre, she works with people who are committed to offering their time and skills for the benefit of others.

She has welcomed the new Community Awards launched in Colchester to recognise such selfless service.

Mrs Cuthew said: “We are all living longer and I think the contribution made by retired people in particular is incredible.

“They do all sorts of things, like getting involved with environmental projects, running lunch clubs and voluntary driving running elderly people to and fro.

“They are people just doing it because they enjoy it. It gets them out and about and keeps them healthy.

“I really would like to know how many volunteers are of a retired age.”

The Colchester Carers Centre, in Oaks Drive, was set up in 1999 to support carers and their families by offering respite care and information.

Mrs Cuthew, a retired children and families social worker, continued: “I don’t think there is any other country in the world where people make such a contribution to their communities. It is so ingrained in us and it makes me proud to be English.

“Many of our charities were set up by philanthropists, like Dr Barnardo, for example, who saw a need and did something about it.”

Colchester Trinity Rotary Club and the Gazette have launched the Community Awards to celebrate unsung heroes.

There are eight categories covering outstanding service to the community and outstanding help to an individual, as well as service carried out at the workplace or a charitable organisation.

Nominees could be young carers, good neighbours or clubs and societies which make a difference. Winners will receive a Rotary Fellowship Award, as well as Lion Walk shopping vouchers and a silver salver.

The deadline for entries is March 1.