North Shields volunteer and mum of 10 awarded Platinum Jubilee honour

A North Shields volunteer who founded a specialist centre for disabled children has been selected as a Platinum Champions volunteer as part of an official Jubilee project.

Lynn McManus founded Pathway4All 10 years ago after one of her adopted children with additional needs was asked to leave a soft play area.

This gave Lynn the drive to create an environment where disabled children and young people could thrive.

The children’s centre operates seven days a week and currently supports over 1,500 families.

Lynn, who has 10 children, impressed judges with her drive in the face of adversity and championing disabled children in society.

She was selected as a Platinum Champion from a pool of over 140 nominees in the North East and 3000 nationally.

Lynn joins a line-up of 490 volunteers who have been recognised as Platinum Champions.

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, said: “The Platinum Champions Awards, launched by Royal Voluntary Service in honour of Her Majesty The Queen’s 70 years of service, has given us the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable contribution of all volunteers, who truly are the backbone of our country.

“Congratulations to all our Platinum Champions – and my heartfelt thanks to you and to the millions of volunteers across the UK who give their time and talents so generously.”

Lynn McManus, founder of Pathways4All said: “It was a huge surprise to be nominated for the award and I am absolutely delighted to be recognised in such a momentous year for our Queen.

“I hope my story inspires people to champion those with special needs, and I want to dedicate my award to all the families and children I’ve helped over the past 10 years.”