Two Wick-based voluntary organisations received accolades during a Volunteers' Week celebration.

Volunteers' Week is held annually over the first week in June and this year Home-Start Caithness and Hearing and Sight Care achieved volunteer Friendly Quality Assurance Awards for their organisations.

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Caithness Voluntary Group's volunteer development officer Catherine Patterson said: "The Volunteer Friendly Award is granted to organisations that are responsible for recruiting and supporting volunteers. Achieving this award demonstrates that the organisations adhere to good practice in volunteer management and is valid for three years."

The award is coordinated by Ms Patterson who can also provide free support to organisations considering registering an interest.

Local councillors Willie Mackay and Nicola Sinclair were on hand to present the winners' plaques and volunteer certificates, while Wick Youth Club kindly provided the venue. Several volunteers attended the event and received certificates to recognise their dedication to Home-Start and Hearing and Sight Care.

Home-Start Caithness offers one-to-one support to families with a child under the age of five, while Hearing and Sight Care – formally Caithness Deaf Care – provides support and equipment loan for people with sensory impairment.

Ms Patterson added: "These two voluntary organisations are an example of the great professional services being offered locally by the voluntary sector."

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