You’re one in a million

And now his outstanding efforts in fundraising have been recognised in the European Year of the Volunteer 2011 by Causeway Volunteer Centre.

Coleraine Mayor, Alderman Maurice Bradley, presented the EU Volunteer Recognition Award with Causeway Volunteer Centre Manager Marie-Louise McClarey to Davy in recognition of his valuable contribution to volunteering and helping others in the borough.

Mayor Bradley said of Davy’s achievements: “Davy is an excellent role model for us all to follow.

“He works tirelessly to raise necessary funding for local charities and Coleraine Borough Council is proud of the good work that he does for the people of the borough and beyond.”

Davy was nominated by Valerie Saunders on behalf of Causeway Fundraising Support Group and NI Chest Heart & Stroke.

Valerie explained the background to her nomination: “The Caring Caretaker” is committed to raising funds to supporting local charities.

“Davy having strong support of his family, sacrifices his annual holiday giving up his time to his fundraising. Davy chairs the fundraising committee, he initiates the fundraising ideas and is active in organising the events and every penny is donated to charity.

“Over the years Davy has indirectly helped many individuals to cope with their illnesses and rehabilitation. Davy is the nucleus and the motivator to the fundraising which is making a huge difference to the lives of many individuals across Northern Ireland.”

Andrew Dougal OBE, Chief Executive of NI Chest Heart & Stroke, also paid tribute, saying: “Davy has been an exemplary beacon who motivates so many people to give in a most generous manner to so many good causes…he has motivated folk to help in fundraising…he has inspired many individuals to organise fundraising events.

“Davy’s selflessness in fundraising in the most oppressive weather conditions is an inspiration to so many others to undertake work to help those encountering disabilities and long term health conditions.”

Marie-Louise McClarey, of Causeway Volunteer Centre, added: “Davy is certainly a worthy award winner with all the good work he does and gets others to do.

“He has raised over £250,000 so far and it is an honour to know someone so talented and committed to charitable deeds. Davy is also a modest and humble man and would always give credit to his wife Theresa who supports all his charity work and credit to his team of fundraisers.”

Money raised by Davy this year will go to NI Children of Lapland Trust; Autism Society NI; NI Chest Heart & Stroke; Ulster Cancer foundation; Motor Neuron Disease; Cystic Fibrosis Trust; Age Concern Causeway; Parkinson’s Disease Society and Zest.

Anyone wishing to find out about fundraising or other volunteering roles contact Causeway Volunteer Centre tel: 7035 8285. Email: [email protected] Web: www.causewayvc.org