Over the next two weeks we are showcasing some of the amazing work individuals and businesses have performed throughout the coronavirus pandemic as part of the Recognition of Service Awards.

Today we are looking at the Fundraising category:

Clare Montgomery

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Clare, who has grown up in Maldon said she was honoured to be nominated.

Her nomination said: "My wife Clare has made loads of scrubs for Broomfield hospital and local care homes.

"When that slowed down it was on to mask making to save her local big sing choir, she made hundreds and got people donating to a go fund me on facebook which now stands at over £5000."

Michelle Bowers

Michelle joined her local sewing group to make essential PPE for the NHS and care homes.

Her nomination said: " “Michelle singlehandedly organised the ‘Community Mask Tree’ and made many of the 788 face masks herself. All she asked was people made a donation (suggested £2) – Michelle’s initiative has raised £1500 to be shared between the Air Ambulance and RNLI charities.”

Saskia Openshaw

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Saskia wanted to do something to help the NHS so began making plaques to raise money.

Her nomination said: "Saskia made wooden plaques for fathers day which she sold to raise money for the NHS.

"She has worked very hard to get all the plaques ready, some were for fathers days but they could have anything written on them. She started with a very modest £35 target but ended up raising an amazing £348."

Debbie de Boltz

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Debbie is normally the fundraising manager at Farleigh Hospice but offered to work at the Home team caring during the lockdown.

Her nomination said: "She is one of the most hard working people I have ever known and also the most carrying.

"For her to help with end of life care was not easy as it’s not many years since her other half died. If you ever ask Debbie for help you will always get the answer, yes with pleasure."