A Fullarton community champion collected a national Rotary award.

Donna Fitzpatrick recieved the community champion award after being recognised for the dedication and commitment she has shown to her community of Fullarton.

The ceremony was held at the stunning Nottingham Council House as part of Rotary’s annual conference and Showcase taking place in the city.

Donna, from Fullarton Community Association, was nominated by Irvine Seagate Rotary, and was among 14 winners who received their awards from the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Cllr Liaqat Ali, at Rotary’s annual Conference in the city.

Donna Fitzpatrick said: “I was very humbled to be nominated for the award and surprised but also delighted to have been chosen as a winner. We have a great team of volunteers at Fullarton without their voluntary time many of our groups would not be possible. I am eternally grateful to both past and present committee members who have also made positive changes to those who live in our community”

Donna has been a mainstay of the Fullarton Community Association for over 30 years, supported by many fantastic volunteers. What started in the late 1970s with just a wooden hut as a temporary facility has grown to into a thriving focal point for the community.

In September 2017, the new, £1.8 million Fullarton Community Hub was opened, offering a youth club, outdoor recreational space and garden, integrated health centre and GP practice and a flexible space for community use.

Donna’s involvement with the Community Association has been outstanding, and she continues to tirelessly give hundreds of hours of voluntary service every year.

The search for this year’s winners was carried out across Rotary’s vibrant network of over 1,700 Rotary clubs, with Rotary members and also members of the public having their extraordinary work recognised. This ranged from tackling mental health and supporting education, to alleviating poverty and fighting prostate cancer.

Andy Slater, Irvine Seagate President also said: “We were delighted to nominate Donna for this award and so proud when it was announced that she was one of the winners. She truly epitomised Rotary’s motto of “Service above Self”.