Last Monday's event was also held to mark the opening of the charity's new premises on Rosemary Street.

Two long service awards were presented, a special Young Person Award and eight NVQ certificates were handed out to successful staff and volunteers.

The six-month NVQ customer care training was held in conjunction with the NE Group, which provided a trainer, who visited Dial's Byron Street offices and held weekly sessions.

The other presentations were for joint awards with Mansfield Community and Voluntary Service and young Dial volunteer Henry Robson was recognised for his contribution to the charity.

Henry, who is 20 years old, has already clocked up more than 50 hours of voluntary work for Dial, including administration and IT work.

Ann Griffin and June Whittemore have both been working with Dial since just after the charity was formed and have each clocked up 25 years service.

Dial spokesman Gary Baird said it was important to recognise the contribution made by volunteers as they can have a huge impact on people's lives.

"I think the NVQs are important too," said Gary. "Rather than people just coming in and doing their bit that rolls into months and years, it gives them a chance to build up their own skills.

"It makes it a two-way thing where people can learn new skills to help them move forward and it also means the charity can improve its service."