Selfless volunteer Owen wins national award (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Selfless volunteer Owen wins national award

7:00am Thursday 21st June 2012 in News

A CLACTON school pupil has been clinched a prestigious national award.

Owen Goodwin, who attends Clacton County High School, has been shortlisted for a Diana Champion Volunteer Award.

The awards were named after Princess Diana and acknowledge inspirational youngsters.

Owen was nominated for his work with children’s charity Barnado’s, where he has volunteered from an early age.

Owen was even invited to take part in Barnado’s annual carol concert in December, where he took to the stage to read a poem with Dame Helen Mirren, who has backed his nomination for the volunteer award.

The actress said: “I met Owen in the intimidating and overpowering environment of St Paul's Cathedral, where we were reading together.

“I think I was more nervous than Owen, who very kindly put me at my ease. I knew then that I was partnered with a very special person.

“This is the personality of Owen, someone who puts others before himself. He is self-possessed and generous of heart. He is poised to become a very valuable member of our community.”

Owen clinched the award this week.