A VOLUNTEER who has spent the past two years helping blind and partially sighted people has been rewarded for her work.

Freda Vitty, of Chilton, received a Year of the Volunteer award in recognition of her contribution to the work of the County Durham Society for the Blind and Partially Sighted.

Mrs Vitty has been a volunteer with the charity for about two years and in that time has assisted with a number of projects, including talking newspapers and newsletter.

She is also a trustee of the society, which provides services to more than 2,000 people across the county from home visits and a telephone support scheme to social clubs and practical help.

At a ceremony at County Hall, in Durham City, she received a medal in acknowledgement of her work from Lord Lieutenant Sir Paul Nicholson and television agony aunt Denise Robertson.

She said: "When I first started volunteering, I was only giving up an hour or so a week. But I found it so rewarding that I spent an increasing amount of time volunteering with the society."

Sandra Hillyward, volunteer co-ordinator for the society, said: "It's fantastic to see people who give up so much of their time for voluntary projects being rewarded."

To become a volunteer call 0191- 386 8175. Befriending volunteers are particularly in demand.

* Volunteers will enjoy a party today - looking back on 2005 as the Year of the Volunteer.

The Volunteer Centre in Teesdale and Weardale, a service supported by 2D, is hosting the party at Bishop Auckland Rugby Club.

The party is the culmination of several events over the past year to mark the Year of the Volunteer, which aimed to promote voluntary organisations, recruit volunteers and recognise and celebrate existing volunteers and their stories.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer, can contact Lindsay Wright at 2D on (01388) 762220.