A Peterborough woman has won a national award in recognition of more than two decades of volunteering.

Denise Speakman BEM has been a Civil Service Sports Council volunteer for over 20 years and, during this time, she has been a committee member, events organiser and area secretary for Peterborough Area Association.

She was recognised at the annual Civil Service Sports Council (CSSC) Awards at a ceremony in London on Friday afternoon when she picked up the Merit Award.

She is currently eastern regional secretary, eastern regional ED&I Champion and area chair for Peterborough area association.

Matt Bazeley OBE, chief executive of CSSC, said: “For over 100 years we’ve supported the health and wellbeing of life’s true champions in the civil service and public sector.

“Organising and running a whole host of different and varied activities and events for members is essential to our mission and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the amazing group of people giving up their time across the country.

“A huge congratulations to all of the winners and finalists whose commitment to their communities has been recognised at this year’s awards.“

The award recognises a CSSC volunteers who have shown highly meritorious service over a sustained period of time and made a significant impact in one or more areas. 

CSSC is a leading organisation for promoting sports, health, and well-being within the UK Civil Service and public sector.

The awards, now in their 46th year, exist to recognise and reward the devotion and hard work which members and volunteers across CSSC show throughout the year. 

Individuals shortlisted for awards were nominated by other members of CSSC and selected by the leadership team in their respective category.

These awards included the Russell Scott Award for Area Association of the Year, the Hayward Trophy for Sports and Representative Bodies (SRB) of the year, the Lord Turnbull Award for Volunteer of the Year, and the John Whittaker Fellowship Award.

Other categories included the innovation, sports, wellbeing, newcomer, and merit awards.

To find out more about CSSC and whether you are eligible for a membership, click here.