THORNBURY charity JIGSAW has been named this year’s winner of an award recognising voluntary work in the town.

The Alan Hudson award is presented by Thornbury Volunteer Centre in memory of their former chairman, and celebrates the work of an individual or group who in their opinion has made a valuable contribution to the local community.

JIGSAW was set up three years ago by parents to provide support and understanding and practical help for local families who face the challenges of having a child with additional needs.

A spokesman for Thornbury Volunteer Centre praised the charity’s founder and director, paediatric nurse Tor Goodman for “always looking to improve and expand what the organisation does and the numbers of individuals and families they can assist.”

Since it was established, JIGSAW has grown steadily and now includes a special educational needs and sensory lending library, social and special needs events, weekly support group and holiday activities.

On receiving the award, Ms Goodman expressed her thanks and gratitude for the recognition of their achievements, adding that “they were now looking to the future and hoping to expand and become even more successful.”