A WIMBORNE woman has been honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award for her work with the group Wimborne War on Waste.

Sarah Wise was recognised for her “outstanding contributions” to organising community litter picks and promoting waste reduction efforts in the town.

Sarah was given the award by Wimborne Town Council at the mayor making ceremony in May.

Sarah began each morning by walking through Redcotts Recreation Ground in Wimborne Minster, picking up litter.

This small act evolved into gathering a group of people together and eventually led to the formation of Wimborne War on Waste.

Sarah Wise was honoured for her war on waste Picture: Wimborne Town Council

A Wimborne Town Council spokesperson said: “This initiative brought about projects like Bin the Butts (an idea originally implemented by the Chamber of Trade), and encouraged cafes to go plastic-free, use refillable coffee cups, and ask businesses to let people fill their mugs with water.

“These efforts, all focused on environmental issues, eventually led to the creation of Planet Wimborne, the Repair Café, and more.

“Without Sarah’s initial litter-picking, many of these initiatives might not exist today, or at least not as soon as they did.

“Wimborne Minster Town Council acknowledges the incredible volunteer efforts within our community.

“The Annual Volunteer of the Year awards by the Town Council are designed to recognise and celebrate volunteers who have made exceptional contributions to Wimborne Minster and its residents.”