The Institute’s Local Affairs Board awards Outstanding Service Awards each year, in recognition of achievement and commitment which has not previously been acknowledged elsewhere. The awards recognise significant contributions to the Institute made through a local group, affiliated society or branch, and the recipient is normally be an Institute member who has held a position as an officer of a local committee for at least eight years.

2009 Outstanding Service Awards

The recipients of awards for outstanding service in 2009 are:

Albert Attwood

Albert has served local and national committees of the former Plastics Institute, its successor The Plastics and Rubber Institute and from here to its amalgamation into IOM3. His commitment to these organisations spans longer than anyone, including Albert, can remember. Records show that he joined the Institute in 1993 but 1947 would be a better estimate.

IMAGE: Albert Attwood's invaluable contribution to the Institute was recognised when he was presented with an Outstanding Service Award by Mike Beeson (right), Chairman of the Midlands Plastics and Rubber Group

Tony Hesp

Tony is the first overseas member to win an Outstanding Service Award. He has served on the committee of the South African Society for 41 years and helped to organise four national conferences. He has passed on his experience and knowledge to younger members and is a driving force in making the society active and successful.

IMAGE: Tony Hesp (right) is presented with his Outstanding Service certificate by IOM3 President Barry Lye

Carmel O'Donohue

Carmel O'Donohue has been the mainstay of the Irish polymer group for over 40 years. She was a founding committee member and has subsequently been treasurer, chairperson and, for at least the last 30 years, secretary.

Carmel is a well-known figure in the Irish South Polymer Group and is a brilliant organiser – IOM3 events in the region have always run smoothly and efficiently. She retired as Honorary Secretary this year to allow a younger person to take over.

IMAGE: Carmel O'Donohue is presented with her award by Sarah Board, National Co-ordinator – Regions, surrounded by committee members

Stuart Porthouse

Stuart joined the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers in 1968 at the age of 21. He has been President twice, first in 1980-81 when the local society was known as the North of England Institute of Mining, Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and again in 2006-07. He has been Treasurer since 2000 and served as Secretary from 2002-06. His selfless commitment, leadership and loyalty to the local society has ensured its continuous existence as it takes up new challenges.

IMAGE: Stuart Porthouse (left) accepted his award from Bernie Rickinson, CEO of IOM3

Past winners

For more information on nominating individuals who work hard for your local society, contact Sarah Boad, tel: +44 (0)1926 430185, or use our online enquiry form.