Robert Piper of The Association’s Mid Sussex Branch has received a very prestigious award from the Royal Voluntary Service, entitled ‘Platinum Champion’ in recognition of his outstanding long-term work for Southwater Village Community. This project was launched by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, as President of the organisation. Approximately 10,000 volunteers were nominated, however only 490 people across the country were privileged to receive this award to mark the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee. These awards celebrate the country’s volunteering spirit, and the example set by HM The Queen, the first British Monarch to celebrate 70 years of service. Robert is, and has been, actively involved in so many Community activities in Southwater, including Parish Council Member, Village Hall Chairman, Welcome Club Volunteer, Local History Group Vice Chairman, The War Memorial Committee and the Horticultural Society Committee. Additionally, Robert is a member of our Patient Participation Group for the local surgery. He has been responsible for sourcing and successfully applying for numerous grants from the Lottery, local Government, Business and Charitable Trusts and also from the Co-op Local Community Fund. Robert also participates in The Royal Sussex Regimental Association and The Not Forgotten Association and was a keen volunteer at Shipley Windmill. In recognition of his service to Southwater, the Parish Council awarded Robert ‘Freedom of the Village’ in 2020. Many congratulations to Robert.
