A DEDICATED volunteer at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, has expressed his delight and surprise after being nominated for recognition at the prestigious 50forWM50 event last month.
Alan Aldrich, who has selflessly given up his Wednesdays for nearly 15 years to volunteer at the museum, was honoured at the event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the formation of the West Midlands as an official county.
The event took place in the Great Hall of Birmingham University, where each of the seven districts of the West Midlands sent 50 nominated volunteers.
These people, celebrated for their contributions to the community, enjoyed a buffet tea and one lucky volunteer had the chance to have a West Midlands tram named after them.
Alan said: “The nomination was a great surprise.
“The Lord Lieutenant’s Office phoned me and told me about it, but I’d had no indication, so it was just a huge surprise and really quite humbling.
“As there were seven districts of the West Midlands represented, each submitting 50 individuals, there were a great deal of us, together with guests.
“It was overwhelming to have been nominated as I am just one of a great many volunteers working at the Herbert.”
Rupert Hedley, volunteer coordinator for CV Life, added: “This is great recognition for Alan, who comes in once or sometimes twice a week, including evenings and at weekends.
“Alan is a lovely man and is popular with staff, volunteers, and visitors alike.
“We’re very proud of what he has achieved and we’ll be forever grateful for the dedication and passion he has shown.”
