Volunteers celebrated at IAM RoadSmart’s annual awards event

• · The awards paid tribute to a network of more than 5,000 volunteers and 160 local groups driving road safety forward

Road safety charity IAM RoadSmart has celebrated the outstanding efforts of its volunteer network at this year’s awards ceremony, paying tribute to individuals and groups who have gone the extra mile to champion road safety across the UK.

The charity is supported by over 5,000 volunteers and 160 local groups across the UK. These dedicated individuals take on roles such as Observers and Examiners, mentoring drivers and riders to help them prepare for and successfully complete IAM RoadSmart courses.

This year’s awards were held at IAM RoadSmart’s headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, on Wednesday, November 19. In total, nine individuals were given awards for their outstanding contribution to road safety.

The ceremony also introduced the new Rising Star Award, created to recognise newer volunteers who have made a big impact in a short time. Its first recipient was Jamie David Sindall, a National Observer for North East London and Essex Advanced Motorists. In his role, Jamie meets with drivers to observe their technique and provide structured, constructive feedback to help drivers develop advanced skills.

The Chair Award, presented by current Chair Shona Johnstone, recognised volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional service and commitment over the past year. This year’s recipients were Russell Wenman (Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Advanced Motorists), Mike Annesley (Training Officer, Oxford Advanced Motorcyclists), and James Sinstadt (Group Secretary, Chester and Nantwich Advanced Drivers).

Other winners on the day included Tony Moore, Chair of the Leicester Group of Advanced Motorists, who received the Group Partnership of the Year Award for the Group’s work with Pathfinder, a driver training programme for under-17s run by the Under 17 Car Club Charitable Trust.

Reflecting on the recognition and his time as a volunteer, Tony said: “For me, the day has been the pinnacle of over 40 years’ membership, accepting a national award on behalf of the Group I chair.”

The Volunteer of the Year – Rider award was won by Adam Meek, Chief Observer at York Advanced Motorcyclists, with Belinda Macdonald, Group Secretary of the ForthValley Group of Advanced Motorists, named as runner-up. The Volunteer of the Year – Driver award went to Alex Beeston, Chair of the Thames Valley Group of Advanced Motorists, while runner-up recognition was given to Sally Franks, Executive Committee member and Bristol West Team Leader.

Sally, who is a longstanding member of IAM RoadSmart, said: “Hearing the accomplishments of all the award recipients showed what a breadth of knowledge and commitment there is within IAM RoadSmart. Chatting to, sharing ideas and experience with other drivers and riders of all ages – what a way to mark my 50 years as an Advanced Driver.”

Head of Field Service Delivery at IAM RoadSmart Amanda Smith said: “Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. These awards are a chance to thank them for their dedication, their time, and the energy they bring to helping others become safer, more confident drivers and riders. Their contribution to IAM RoadSmart makes an enormous difference in communities across the country.”