Robert McClelland came to Finsbury & Clerkenwell Volunteers 20 years ago a very shy young man but also very eager to please.

Paul became his friend and in return Robert came to work every day. There was not any task he was asked to do that he refused.

He treats everybody with kindness and respect, always safety conscious and hardworking. Robert enriches all the lives he comes into contact with.

Robert is indispensible. He is a very big part of FCV.

We were delighted to celebrate both his 50th birthday and the 20th anniversary of his coming to us at FCV. Congratulations and many thanks for your huge contribution, Robert.

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Paul Gilbert, who was our Project Organiser until July 2011. Paul was involved with our organisation for more than 20 years, coming to us initially as a community driver.

As well as being kind and generous, he was an extremely talented and intelligent man, who devoted his working life to the vulnerable and isolated elderly people of the area. Nothing was ever too much trouble for him.

He greatly enriched the lives of many, taking them to places they never dreamed of; to parks to see the deer, on canal boats, on holiday to seaside resorts and to our caravan at Steeple Bay. He organised barbecues, shopping trips and outings to pubs. He personally helped many individuals through times of crisis on both a practical and emotional level.

Paul was a modest man with a great sense of humour. He quietly got on with his work, never seeking praise for himself. He was an inspirational leader.

Paul personally changed the lives of many for the better. He will be greatly missed.

Two highly enjoyable party lunches have been enjoyed by the Lunch Club so far this year. The Winter Warmer in January was sponsored by Reed and Mackay and then that romantic event the Valentines Party took place care of B.Win.

A great time was had at both parties although no engagements have been announced as a consequence.

It has been a pleasure for all involved to welcome Joe Trotter to a recent Lunch Club and on a shopping expedition. Joe is a highly respected ex-Mayor of Islington and is still very involved with a number of local charitable organisations.

We look forward to enjoying his enthusiasm again at future events.

Many congratulations to clients Yvonne and Yirogei on the arrival of their second daughter in January, a sister for Oxanna. Their pleasure and enthusiasm is winning over the daunted feeling experienced by the father ahead of the happy event.