Tina Cook presents awards to volunteers at Regional Conference

Over 130 RDA members, representing nearly 25 groups from across the South East, converged on the Haven Centre in Crawley Down last week for the region’s Annual Conference, sponsored by East Grinstead’s Cowan Architects. This year delegates were asked to focus on the theme of “People and Potential” with a series of workshops run by experts from RDA’s National Office. The day ended with some well-deserved awards which were presented by the Region’s Vice President, eventer and Olympic medallist, Tina Cook.

“People are our biggest asset” said Regional Chair, Lindsay Correa. “So we need to ensure that all our volunteers have a role to play, can grow in that role and can spread the word as RDA advocates and these workshops will helps us to do this”.

Delegates considered the use of internal skills’ audits of themselves and their other volunteers and then addressing where there might be skill holes in their Groups. Then they looked at how they might go about finding any additional skills they needed externally and the power of the people stories that they have to tell.

“Our stories from the RDA are a very valuable currency that we can use to motivate people who may be new to us” said Caroline Ward, Communications Manager for the RDA. “We are all extraordinary and we witness many moving moments, which to us may become normal but we must remember what an amazing resource we have to share”.

Tina Cook was happy to present 25 year service awards to Anna Kerr from Court Meadow (Albourne, East Sussex), and Mary Briggs, Helen Mills and Jennifer Nash – all from Cranleigh RDA, Surrey. Liz Wrighton from Bradbourne RDA (Riverhead, Sevenoaks), was also honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award. Liz Major from Heron’s Ghyll RDA (Whitesmith, Nr Uckfield, East Sussex) was awarded the coveted Tora Bray Perpetual Trophy for being “a committee member, companion whip, indefatigable helper and all round good sport” and going ‘above and beyond’ the normal. In the 40th anniversary year of RDA carriage driving it was fitting that the Stella Hancock RDA Driving Group (Worplesdon, Surrey) was awarded the Buchan Bobby trophy for their amazing driving commitment and for producing an extra-ordinary display for RDA President, HRH the Princess Royal.