We recently hosted a summer social in celebration of National Volunteers Week, honouring the work of our dedicated staff and volunteers who play an integral role in the success of our theatre.
It was a fantastic opportunity for volunteers from across the organisation to get together and enjoy a day of recognition and appreciation. As a registered charity, we rely on the invaluable contributions of volunteers to help deliver an exciting programme of live events, cinema screenings, and contemporary art to the county town. Our volunteers work across many areas including hospitality, front of house, technical, and marketing.
To make the day even more special, we were also joined by Rob Beckley KPM, High Sheriff of Somerset. The High Sheriff, as the King’s representative for justice in Somerset, plays a pivotal role in supporting and encouraging the voluntary and emergency services sectors, and regularly engages with the many different organisations who contribute to the wellbeing of Somerset residents.
During his visit, he presented Val Hammond with an award for her voluntary contribution to the Taunton community. Val is the long-standing Chair of Trustees at Taunton Brewhouse and founder member of Taunton Theatre Association, responsible for bringing the theatre back to life in 2014.
The High Sherrif’s Awards are given in recognition of great and valuable service to the county. A service will take place in Taunton Minster on Saturday 28 September as part of the Taunton Together Festival—a vibrant celebration of the town’s community, culture, and creativity—where all award recipients will be honoured.
It is a huge honour for Val’s exceptional efforts to have been recognised in this way and a delight for our staff and volunteers who had the opportunity to thank her for her unwavering dedication and support, as well as celebrate their own achievements.
Commenting, Val said: “I am astonished and delighted to receive the High Sheriff’s Award for volunteering, especially on a day when so many of our own volunteers were present. Without their fantastic contribution and that of our core professional team, the Brewhouse simply wouldn’t be here 10 years after Taunton Theatre Association re-opened it.’
If you would like to find out more about volunteering at Taunton Brewhouse, click here or email [email protected].
