Pembroke 21C Community Association has recently achieved the prestigious Investing in Volunteers quality standard in recognition of the excellent work they do with volunteers in the community.

Gareth Jones, the chair of Trustees of the Community Association, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have achieved this standard which calls for congratulations to each and every one involved in Pembroke 21C in any way, but especially to our volunteer co-ordinator, David Wall.

"We greatly appreciate all our volunteers and the time and enthusiasm they bring to their work in the community."

Investing in Volunteers is the UK quality standard for organisations involving volunteers. It aims to improve the quality of the volunteering experience and to encourage organisations to better recognise the enormous contribution made by volunteers. Investing in Volunteers is managed in the Wales by Wales Council for Voluntary Action.

Pembroke 21C was assessed against a range of best practice standards and proved to excel in all aspects of working with its volunteers.

"The assessment was quite rigorous and there is very full report," said Elizabeth Gossage, the development officer for Pembroke 21C. "Working in the community means that volunteers are our lifeblood," she continued. "Achieving this award has made us ensure that we use and continue to use best practice in all our dealings with them and make sure that we appreciate the work they do."

A volunteer commented: "It's fun here, a great deal of fun, and there are some fantastic characters. I really enjoy it. The staff always make me feel welcome and make sure you have the things you need."

Pembroke 21C is based in Foundry House Community Centre on Pembroke Commons which it runs for the community to use. The organisation also manages a range of projects for the benefit of all who live and work in Pembroke such as the Pembroke Millponds Local Nature Reserve, Holyland Woodland and Pembroke Farmers Market.