Civic Champions of Southwell
Eight Civic Champions were recognised at a recent Awards Ceremony held by Southwell Town Council.
The Civic Champions Awards scheme is run every four years by the Town Council with residents nominating organisations or individuals who have done something very special for their local community.
Held at Holy Trinity Church on 4th November, Chair of the Council Cllr Sally Reynolds presented the first award to Katie Freeman and Sam Davies from Southwell Torpedos for the outstanding contribution the organisation made throughout the pandemic.
The Nursing Staff at the Southwell Medical Centre were also recognised for their exceptional hard work and dedication over the last 18 months.
Also rewarded were Lisa White from the Hearty Goodfellow for several initiatives offering free lunches and a social lifeline to elderly and isolating residents.
And Gill Wright, a Trustee of Support Refugees in Southwell which has settled two Syrian families locally.
Four residents who have given decades of service were also recognised:
Jacky Huson, who set up the Southwell Flood Forum, trained flood wardens and campaigned for the flood mitigation projects.
Alastair Murray for his contribution in running the Southwell Gardening Club, as well as other community groups.
Mary West for being the driving force behind Westhorpe’s thriving community activities for nearly 50 years.
Finally, a posthumous tribute was paid to Cllr Beryl Prentice, who passed away in office in June 2020. Beryl instigated many annual town events including Civic Champions, so it is fitting that she has received an award.
Cllr Sally Reynolds said: “Each Civic Champion epitomises what community is all about, and it reinforces how lucky we are to live in such a caring town. Congratulations to all the worthy winners.”
The Awards were presented by Councillors Peter Harris, Penny Rainbow and Sally Reynolds.
Each winner received a beautiful wooden apple trophy carved from walnut, designed by Cllr Karen Roberts and carved by Michael Beckett.