The Rural Municipality of Hanover has handed Volunteer Of The Year awards to five residents.

(Kim Friesen receives Volunteer Of The Year plaque from Kleefeld Councillor Gord Meneer)Reeve Stan Toews says each year, the five communities in Hanover nominate individuals they would like recognized for their volunteer efforts. The winner then receives a plaque which is presented at that community's summer festival.

This year's winners were Edna Vogt in New Bothwell, Leona Goertzen in Blumenort, Peter Penner in Mitchell, Kim Friesen in Kleefeld and Barry Dyck in Grunthal.

"We want to recognize our volunteers because they play a very important part in our municipality," explains Toews. "They contribute a lot of service to the community."

(Barry Dyck)Toews says a lot of programs in Hanover could not be provided efficiently without volunteers. In fact, he says Hanover would look "somewhat dismal" without these individuals.

It is Toews' opinion that Hanover has a great volunteer spirit and that residents are willing to give of their time and expertise.

"I think it's a great program and these people should be recognized," shares Toews. "I sure hope it continues in the years to come."