Gerry Mawdsley, Age UK Wigan Borough’s Ukulele Group Leader, has been crowned a Coronation

Champion.

The Coronation Champion awards standards are incredibly high, and the royal voluntary service received nearly 5000 nominations therefore it is an incredible achievement that Gerry was one out of 500 people picked to be crowned a Coronation Champion. Gerry is an inspirational volunteer who commits his time weekly to help lead and support a Ukulele Group named HUG (Hindley Ukulele Group). He brings joy and happiness to his community by organising performances for local community groups, people in care homes, groups with people with dementia, and many more. Gerry motivates people who have never picked up an instrument before and grows their confidence, so they are able to go out and perform. Gerry is at the heart of the Ukulele group and enables the group to run weekly which gives people a real sense of purpose tackling issues such as social isolation and loneliness. Bryonie Shaw Chief Executive Officer at Age UK Wigan Borough says ‘We were delighted to nominate Gerry for a Coronation Champion and are over the moon he has won an award. Gerry, like all our volunteers, gives up his free time to share his passion and brings a smile to all those who come along to the group. Gerry is an inspiration to us all, bringing enthusiasm and commitment to older people across Wigan Borough.’ Along with volunteering for Age UK Wigan Borough Gerry was president of the George Formby Society and worked on getting the George Formby statue, which brings a visible cultural reference to Wigan town Centre. Gerry also performed for the Queen and Prince Charles at the Queen’s 92nd Birthday and he met Ed Balls who he then went on to teach the Ukulele in 2 weeks! Gerry Mawdsley says ‘I’m so proud of the coronation Awards launched by Royal Voluntary service with His Majesty King Charles and Her Majesty the Queen Consort. Looking forward to celebrating with fellow Champions at the coronation concert at Windsor Castle. Gerry will be presented with a badge and a certificate signed by His Royal Highness King Charles and the her Royal Highness the Queen Consort. Gerry is truly an extraordinary individual due to his commitment to his community and his willingness to go the extra mile to improve the lives of others.