A VOLUNTEER from Barry has been recognised for dedicating her time to charity and was honoured at the 2016 Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Donna Macliston was one of three people to be awarded the green volunteer award for her work on a gardening project for people with mental health problems. Her work gave her the confidence to help others make the same progress.

After two years of being supported by Solas Cymru Housing Association to take part in its community allotments scheme in the Vale of Glamorgan, Ms Macilston is now herself volunteering to show people with similar issues how to dig, plant, and pot and look after the plants they grow.

The products that are grown are used to eat healthily and to help the community gaining a better understanding of healthy food.

Sarah Davies from Solas Cyrmu said: “The allotments benefit people with stress and anxiety and provide a community hub for them to meet others who have had similar experiences.

“They have helped them to feel less isolated and more united.

“Donna is no longer supported by Solas, as she has achieved her goals set out at the beginning of her time receiving support.

“She has developed as a person and her volunteering has given her pride and ownership of something she enjoys and can feel a part of.”

Ms Macliston was presented her award at The Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) event which took place at Cardiff Castle on Friday, June 10, and was hosted by WCVA vice president, Tom Jones OBE.