14 July 2026 Volunteering
HRH The Princess Royal, Royal Patron of the MND Association, was guest of honour at a special event celebrating the vital contribution volunteers make to people affected by motor neurone disease (MND).
Around 70 guests and dedicated MND Association volunteers gathered at Blenheim Palace on 9 July to receive thanks for their invaluable efforts – which, for many, spans decades of support.
As well as a chance to tour the impressive house and grounds, volunteers connected with one another over afternoon tea in the orangery, and all received a special book of thanks documenting the invaluable support they’ve given.
Special recognition
Four volunteers also received special recognition from The Princess Royal for the outstanding impact they have made in their local communities:
- Nick Horler, Cornwall Branch
- Kate Bryon, Cardiff and Vale Branch
- Jonathan (Joff) Machell, Exeter and East Devon Branch
- Maureen Tingley, North West Kent Branch
“It has been a very special day and inspiring to see all of the volunteers around the country come together and celebrate what we’ve achieved. I just do what I do every day and don’t think about it, so it has been really special to be recognised.
Volunteering for the Association allows me to celebrate the life of my brother, remember him every day, keep him in the heart and minds of others and hopefully mean that in the future, other families won’t have to go through what we’ve gone through.”
Kate Bryon, Cardiff and Vale Branch
Also in attendance was Clarkson’s Farm’s, Charlie Ireland. Following his father’s death from MND in 2011, Charlie has tackled several fundraising events in recent years and became an ambassador for the Association in 2025.
'Extraordinary impact'
Volunteers have been an integral to the Association from the very beginning, founding the Association in October 1979 after recognising more support was needed for people affected by MND.
Today, volunteers organise events to raise funds and awareness, campaign for change, create spaces for shared companionship at support groups and offer trusted guidance and information about the Association’s support.
“It has been wonderful to celebrate the extraordinary impact our volunteers make every day for people affected by MND and to thank them, alongside our Royal Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, for their dedication, compassion and generosity.
More than four decades ago, the Association was founded by volunteers determined to make a difference. That same spirit remains at the heart of everything we do today. We are incredibly fortunate to have more than 1,300 volunteers who give their time, energy and expertise to support people affected by MND, and help create strong, supportive local communities. Their contribution is truly invaluable, and we simply could not achieve what we do without them.
It was a privilege to welcome so many volunteers to our special Afternoon Tea and to recognise and celebrate the remarkable impact they have within the MND community every day.”
Tanya Curry, Chief Executive of the MND Association