President's Award : Verity Jones, June 2015

On Verity’s retirement as Chairman of our Group last year her colleagues decided that there was only one way to show their appreciation for all she has done for the Group over so many years and nominated her for the most prestigious volunteer award within RDA. The President’s Award is awarded for services of an exceptional nature over a period of 30 years. We were all thrilled when we heard that she had been chosen to receive the award and even more thrilled when it was presented to Verity at the SE Supra Conference at Royal Military Academy Sandurst in April by HRH The Princes Royal herself. Several members went with Verity and her husband Trevor on a beautiful sunny day to receive her award.

 

Verity’s citation read as follows:

 

VERITY JONES -  An exceptional RDA Supporter

 

“When Verity  joined a small riding group in 1983 little did she know she would go on to become the linchpin of the successful RDA Group that Godstone has become. As Trustee, Instructor, Committee Member, Group Organiser and Chairman, she has guided and supported volunteers, riders, parents, carers and sponsors.

She has been instrumental in substantially increasing riding classes, doubling the original number offered each week to the 66 riders of today. 

 

Verity IS Godstone RDA.   Her passion for the organisation knows no bounds and that passion is infectious. Riders benefit from her compassionate coaching style and helpers have learned from her hands on approach.  

Her cheery disposition puts riders at ease, parents appreciate her openness and volunteers benefit from the support and encouragement she provides. Muddy cold winter classes are rewarded with hot coffee and a smile and she never forgets the Easter eggs and Christmas chocolates for everyone.  

Verity has Chaired a very successful committee ensuring that all activities are carried out to high standards from the welfare of the horses to the encouragement of riders and on going support for volunteers. She generously opens her own home for committee meetings, fund raising suppers etc and the year could not end without the annual fund raising bridge lunch in her lounge. 

It is testament to her ability to work with others that committee members remained with her through times when difficult decisions needed to be made and carers and parents recognise her commitment and hold her in high regard.

Over the years Verity has been the driving force behind many successful fund raising projects including involving her local golf club raising £5,700 and even accepting birthday donations in the name of RDA.  Verity carries everyone with her in her enthusiasm for RDA.

In selflessly giving so much of her time and personal commitment for over 30 years Verity has ensured that the Group thrives in her retirement as Chairman.  New additional Coaches are on board, classes are full to capacity, a good bank of well trained volunteers are working with us and the group is on sound financial footing.  As she hands over the Chair, the Trustees and Managing Committee are well placed to ensure Godstone RDA continues to play a vital role within the Organisation”.