A WOMAN who has ’worked tirelessly’ to kep the wheels of her charity turning during the pandemic has become the first recipient of a new award.

Sally Ackerley was presented with the High Sheriff of Cornwall’s Unsung Hero Award at a ceremony in Camborne.

Sally is the office manager for White Gold Cornwall Foundation, a charity providing one to one support and mentoring for vulnerable children and young people across the whole county.

The young people the organisation helps typically might have experienced very difficult life events, and could be excluded from school, expressing unaccceptable or challenging behaviour, involved, or at risk or becoming involved in crime, and lacking in confidence, self-esteem and social skills.

Through long-term support, White Gold helps young people come to terms with some significant difficulties and traumas and guides them to find their path back into education or work.

High Sheriff of Cornwall Kate Holborow said: ’As office manager, Sally has for several years been at the centre of the charity’s work, working with colleagues, partner agencies and of course the young clients.

’Over the course of the pandemic she has worked tirelessly to help keep the wheels turning and ensure that White Gold can continue to provide its invaluable mentoring throughout lockdown. She has even personally taken on the Couch to 5k challenge, raising much needed funds for White Gold.

’Sally epitomises the dedication and selflessness which have played such a crucial role in our communities over recent months,’ she continued.

’I am delighted to be making this award to her and want to add my thanks for all she has done for White Gold and Cornwall’s vulnerable young people.’

Sally was nominated by Alan Milliner, White Gold’s CEO. The High Sheriff’s office is accepting nominations for the Unsung Hero Award on an ongoing basis. Anyone wishing to nominate an individual should send a brief citation, and a contact point for further discussion to the High Sheriff’s office via [email protected], until February 28 2021. All will be acknowledged and responded to within a month.