SOME of York’s most outstanding employee-volunteers have won recognition for their contribution to the city at the annual York Cares Golden Moments Awards 2014.

Volunteers from more than 20 York businesses and universities attended the event at Aviva's offices, organised by York Cares, the employee-volunteering charity.

Eight Golden Moments of the Year Awards were presented to volunteers whose commitment and contribution was deemed to be outstanding.

Volunteers have taken part in activities such as brightening up the lives of people at an elderly persons' home, transforming the outdoor area at New Earswick Folk Hall, encouraging children to be active and supporting patients with cardio-vascular health problems.

Holly Hennell, York Cares operations manager, said: “This is our chance to give something back to the wonderful volunteers who have made such a fantastic contribution to community projects this year. These volunteers are hugely valuable to the city and make a real difference to people’s lives.

“Volunteering is growing in York with so many businesses getting behind initiatives and spreading the word to friends and colleagues, we hope that even more people will feel inspired to take part.”To see how to get involved in York Cares employee volunteering initiatives visit www.yorkcares.co.uk

Winners included staff from Aviva, NatWest, City of York Council, Waitrose, York Marriott Hotel, York St John University, Benenden Health, Network Rail, Northern Rail and the University of York.