Luton volunteer receives a Point of Light award from the Prime Minister

A Luton man received a Points of Light award from the Prime Minister on Monday, November 5.
David Allen was presented with a Points of Light award from Prime Minister Theresa May at a reception at Downing Street for the MS Society to recognise the hard work happening within the multiple sclerosis community. Photo by Joel RouseDavid Allen was presented with a Points of Light award from Prime Minister Theresa May at a reception at Downing Street for the MS Society to recognise the hard work happening within the multiple sclerosis community. Photo by Joel Rouse
David Allen was presented with a Points of Light award from Prime Minister Theresa May at a reception at Downing Street for the MS Society to recognise the hard work happening within the multiple sclerosis community. Photo by Joel Rouse

David Allen was awarded for his work for the MS Society at an event hosted by Prime Minister Theresa May in London.

The event celebrated the MS Society, and she thanked the charity for their work raising money for research into new treatments and supporting those living with the condition.

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The Prime Minister presented David with the Points of Light award, he has transformed his local branch of the MS Society into one that helps hundreds of people every year.

He has also been instrumental in some of the charity’s national campaigns including ‘Treat Me Right’, aiming to improve early access to treatment.

This hard work earned David the charity’s Volunteer of the Year award a year after his own diagnosis with MS.

He said: “When I started volunteering for the MS Society over 15 years ago I had no idea where the role would take me.

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“I volunteer to help bring about vital change for people affected by MS and will continue to share my experience of the condition to help others.

“If I’m honest, I’m gobsmacked I’ve won an award. It is truly an honour and privilege to be recognised in this way and it is really humbling to know people notice.”

The Prime Minister welcomed over 150 volunteers, ambassadors and supporters of the charity, as well as Nick Winser, the chair of the charity.

She said: “The work that the MS Society does not only improves the lives of those diagnosed with the condition through funding new research but also provides much needed support for them and their loved ones.

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“They are only able to do this through the tireless dedication of their incredible volunteers such as David and I am delighted to be able to present him with a Points of Light award.”

More than 5,000 people around the UK volunteer for the MS Society, and last year alone gave more than 700,000 hours of their time to support people affected by MS.

The Points of Light award honours outstanding volunteers across the UK.

Patricia Gordon, Acting Chief Executive at the MS Society, said: “David has made a huge contribution to the MS Society over the last five years, and his continued support and dedication is invaluable.

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“It was fantastic to see him presented with a Points of Light Award by the Prime Minister at an event to celebrate our volunteers and advancements in MS research.

“It was a great way to thank him for his work, and something we will all remember for a very long time.

“We’re driving research into more – and better – treatments, and David’s unwavering dedication and passion will help us every step of the way. Together, we’re strong enough to stop MS.”