Medals for SPCA five

Five animal lovers from Wairarapa have been honoured for their work by receiving medallions from the Governor General.

Val Ball, Nicky Burt, Max Jones, Lorraine Kelf and Eva Zabagio were awarded the RNZSPCA Silver Jubilee Award, which commemorates the 60th anniversary of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Mrs Ball, the chairwoman of Wairarapa SPCA, was nominated by the SPCA in recognition of her 25 years of service.

Nicky Burt had been a volunteer for 12 years and was "an absolute dynamo" who Mrs Ball said worked well with cats.

Ms Burt, who lives in Featherston, has her transport to Masterton sponsored by Tranzit Coachlines. Max Jones had been a volunteer for seven years and had "a real passion for dogs" in helping with their daily exercise and care at the compound, Mrs Ball said.

Lorraine Kelf, a volunteer for 16 years, was "very passionate about animals", with a wide background knowledge.

Eva Zabagio, a weekend volunteer for 20 years, was a willing worker who "will lend a hand to whatever needs doing," Mrs Ball said.