Diamond Champions
Way back in June/July, Judith and Alan Hudson asked me if I would mind if they nominated me for Diamond Champions Award, which Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of Cornwall agreed to be patrons of. It was run by the WRVS, and out of 4,579 entries nationwide, 480 were chosen, 60 of those in our area, of which I was one.
From these 60, ten were invited to go on to St James’s Palace in London to meet with HRH Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. Not that lucky, you might say, but I was lucky! I am just delighted with my award and what an honour. A certificate arrived two weeks ago signed by HRH Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
We were invited to attend Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland on Wednesday 10 October 2012 to receive our Diamond Champions Pins which were commissioned by Charles and Camilla to celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee year. The awards were for any unsung hero who either helps others or the community in which they live, doing voluntary work. The pins were presented by The Lord Lieutenant of Durham, who was brilliant. He had something to say to each person receiving an award, and it was a really lovely occasion. I was greatly chuffed to be regarded as a person who deserved an award. I really enjoy what I do especially when I am on the shore and locals and visitors stop to talk.
Thank you very much Alan for nominating me and for driving us to Bishop Auckland, it surely was a most memorable day. I have already worn my pin with great pride.
Last week I received a lovely letter of congratulations from Sir Alan Beith and this week I received a most delightful card from Jane, Duchess of Northumberland.
It is very nice to be acknowledged and to know people appreciate what happens in their own Town.
Audrey Jones
