Millennium Volunteer Rachel Forde attended a special reception at Downing Street in recognition of her volunteering efforts throughout 2006.

During the last year Rachel has completed over 200 hours of volunteering at Wallsend Library, Able 2 Print and VODA. Here is Rachel’s account of the day...

Millennium Volunteer Rachel Forde attended a special reception at Downing Street in recognition of her volunteering efforts throughout 2006. During the last year Rachel has completed over 200 hours of volunteering at Wallsend Library, Able 2 Print and VODA. Here is Rachel’s account of the day: “I went on the train to London. I was tired. When we arrived we got a taxi to our hotel I unpacked my suitcase and had lunch and watched tv. In the evening I put my best clothes on and so did my dad then we got a taxi to Downing Street. It was very busy. There was a big crowd of people. We were offered nibbles and wine. I spoke to Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and Cherie Blair. They asked me about what I do as a volunteer. There were lots of photographers. I have got a framed picture of me and Tony Blair. I really enjoyed my trip to London. It was the second time I’ve been. I wouldn’t like to go again because it’s so far away.”