Royston couple named volunteers of the month by charity

Gillian and Kevin Robinson, of Royston, were recognised by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People for their dedication and commitment to training puppies.

They joined the charity's network of volunteers in March 2020 and have since trained four Labrador puppies, establishing themselves as breed specialists.

In March, while already training black Labrador Nico, they welcomed another Labrador puppy, Saxon, into their home.

The two dogs have become great friends, and the couple share their adventures on the charity’s Facebook page.

Rachel Clarke, community fundraising manager for Hertfordshire, described Gillian and Kevin as "superstars."

She said: "Not only are they valued volunteer dog trainers, but they have also made an impact as fundraisers.

"They are always on the lookout for opportunities.

"Last Christmas, for example, they asked their local Tesco store if they could do an in-store collection, raising almost £850 in just a few hours."

Victoria Leedham, head of volunteering for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: "Gill and Kevin are kind-hearted, willing and generally just a joy to be around.

"They are admired and appreciated by their peers as Labrador specialists, fun fundraisers and also for being two wonderful human beings that we feel honoured to count within our volunteer family."

Gillian and Kevin said that winning the award came as both a "huge surprise and a great pleasure".

Gillian said: "Volunteering for Hearing Dogs has given us so much more than we expected.

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"We have become part of a community of dedicated volunteers to a very worthy cause, one that is gaining more recognition for its work and, of course, its wonderful dogs."

Volunteer of the Month was introduced by Hearing Dogs for Deaf People to recognise volunteers who have done something exceptional, consistently go the extra mile, or whose understated volunteering deserves to be brought to the fore.

Anyone who would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer puppy trainer, or helping the charity in other ways, can visit the charity’s website, send an email to volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk or call 01844 348129.