VOLUNTEERS at Netherthird in Cumnock were congratulated for their efforts at an awards ceremony.

They were presented with Volunteers Week Certificates by MSP Jeane Freeman, who also made a voluntary contribution to the day.

She planted a rose tree in the community garden and served refreshments to people at the event, which recognised the three organisations which have helped improve the area.

Netherthird Initiative for Community Empowerment (NICE), Netherthird Community Garden and Four Connections have played a major part in various projects which have operated.

Margaret Campbell, chairwoman of NICE, said: “The residents wanted to develop great community assets and the volunteers made that happen. There was a huge amount of anti-social behaviour in the area.

“And these three voluntary organisations have helped considerably. Volunteers turned the old library into a youth and preschool centre, and we developed a community garden which is enjoyed by young and old alike.”

“The NICE group took over the asset transfer of the Netherthird Community Centre from East Ayrshire Council, which is now used by local groups while volunteers run a community café (NCAFE).

“Netherthird continues to develop through the effort and commitment of volunteers; we have recently been granted funding from the Lottery to develop a gym on the premises.”

Ms Freeman said that volunteering binds communities together, whether it’s helping young people to access sport, making sure elderly people are not isolated and lonely, tackling poverty or organising communities to grow, cook and eat together.

She added: “Volunteer’s Week is our chance to recognise and thank people who give of themselves for others and the work of NICE here in Cumnock and Doon Valley is a perfect illustration of the difference that can make.”

Ann Hunter of the Volunteer Centre said the Netherthird groups show how people can make a difference.