Enniskillen local Genevieve Irvine has been recognised with the Platinum Champions Award for her outstanding voluntary activity in the community for SWELL, a cancer survivorship charity group of which she is a founding member.

To recognise and reward volunteers who have given their time to help others in the community, the Royal Voluntary Service, together with its president, Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall, and in partnership with The Big Jubilee Lunch, launched the Platinum Champion Awards, in this, The Queen's Platinum Jubilee year. The awards celebrate the country's volunteering spirit and the example set by Her Majesty, the first British Monarch to celebrate 70 years of service.

Thousands of people from all over the UK were nominated for the special award and from these nominations, 490 volunteers were hand-picked by a judging panel presided over by The Duchess of Cornwall. Genevieve is one of 14 volunteers from Northern Ireland to receive the award, and the only person from Fermanagh.

At a surprise ceremony hosted amid the 'Our Coronation Story' Jubilee exhibition at Enniskillen Castle on Tuesday, June 7, Genevieve, a resident of Enniskillen, was presented with the award by the High Sheriff of Fermanagh Pat O'Doherty and Lady Katie Hamilton.

Speaking to The Impartial Reporter during the ceremony, Genevieve commented that she was "overwhelmed" and "honoured" to be recognised with the Platinum Champions Award.

"I didn't expect it, it was such a surprise," she said, adding: "I am honoured that somebody has recognised the work.

"I am really appreciative but I couldn't be here without the support of the volunteers. I'm just so delighted, excited and honoured."

As a local charity, all funds raised by SWELL go toward providing services and therapies for Fermanagh people, providing a space for self-expression, gentle exercise, creativity and fun.

Talking about what this award means for the charity, Genevieve said: "I just think people will hear about us, it will get some more recognition. We are now a registered charity so it all helps.

"It will put a stamp on us that we are authentic and we are here for Fermanagh people."

Genevieve also commented on her delight at being able to celebrate her award with friends and family at the special ceremony.

"It's fantastic. Some of the [SWELL] clients are here and I know that they are extremely ill and they've still made there way here today. I'm not The Queen but I feel very honoured and excited," she told this newspaper.

Congratulating all the Platinum Champions, Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall addressed recipients with the following message: "My heartfelt thanks to you and to the millions of volunteers across the UK who give their time and talents so generously."