The enthusiastic volunteers who support, promote and work on behalf of Britain's biggest business representation group have been recognised at a special national event.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is a member-led organisation which has volunteers working on behalf of members throughout the UK to ensure stakeholders are fully aware of the need, concerns and ambitions of the small businesses within the community.

To thank the volunteers, the FSB staged an online 'Volunteer Recognition' celebration hosted by TV presenter Kate Humble, where more than 130 people from across the organisation were given thanks for the work they put in on behalf of SMEs in their local areas.

Among those honoured were the FSB Area Lead for Somerset and North Somerset, John Mayer and the FSB Area Lead for Swindon and Wiltshire, Angela Atkinson. Wiltshire based Alison North, an FSB Board Member and skills specialist volunteer Karen Ferris were also thanked. Rachael Johnson from Wiltshire Council spoke to the conference about the partnership working she has done with the FSB during her time at the council and expressed a wish to continue this in the future.

Also recognised for his efforts was the FSB's Regional Chair for the South West, Lee Nathan, who said it was important that volunteers were highlighted for the effort they put in for others – especially at a time when they have had so many other challenging issues facing their own businesses.

Ruth Lambert, Development Manager for Somerset and Wiltshire said:

"The FSB is rightfully proud of the selfless work done by its volunteers, and it was a great honour to be able to recognise so many of them at the event. Our local volunteers work hard to ensure that the voice of small businesses is loudly heard across Somerset and Wiltshire."

You can find out more about the FSB by visiting www.fsb.org.uk.