THE Mayor of Westbury, councillor David Bradshaw, hosted the town council’s annual Civic Awards ceremony at the Laverton last month, where awards were presented to local volunteers for their contributions to the town over the past year.
Civic awards were presented to St. John Ambulance volunteer Lily Munday; Carole King for her work with several local organisations; and Westbury charity Crosspoint. Sean Price was also awarded for his services as town crier, and for Westbury Air Training Corps (ATC), Eve Beckett was named NCO (non commissioned officer) of the Year, and Eland Frost, the Cadet of the Year.
Volunteers Jessica Nel and Len Clift accepted the award on behalf of Crosspoint, a charity based in the Market Place that helps people dealing with issues relating to wellbeing, isolation, poverty or distress.
Cllr Bradshaw said, “Crosspoint provides wonderful services to so many people from all walks of life, I present this award to those who give so much of their time to this invaluable organisation which is a lifeline for so many in Westbury.”
Lily Munday received her award for services to St. John Ambulance, with which she has volunteered for 40 years; Westbury Heritage Centre; White Horse Team Ministry; and for her work at care homes in the area.
The mayor said, “Lily is an unsung heroine who keeps herself out of the limelight and asks for nothing in return. Her work in the community is amazing. I present her with this award in recognition of her services to our community over so many years.”
Carole King was awarded for her volunteer work with the BA13+ Community Area Partnership, the Heritage Society, the Link scheme, and as a founder member of Hope Debt Advice. She also works with Crosspoint, Alzheimer’s Support, and a local church group.
The mayor said of Carole, “Anyone who has ever met Carole is immediately struck by a calm and calming character, who is also caring and compassionate. They also find a quietly determined and resourceful character who works at pace, always doing whatever is needed for whoever needs help. Carole is a true champion of our community.”
Alongside the three main civic awards, a special mention was given to former town crier Sean Price, of whom the mayor said, “Sean has served Westbury admirably during his time as town crier and has come out of retirement several times to support me during my year in office – I thank him very much indeed for that.”
Cadet Eland Frost, from the 68 (Westbury) Squadron, Air Training Corps, was presented the Cadet of the Year award.
Cllr Bradshaw said, “Over the past year Cadet Frost has matured from a shy individual into a young man who is capable of leading and encouraging fellow cadets, both by experience and leadership.
“His interaction with fellow cadets and unit staff has had, and will continue to have, a lasting positive effect on all.”
Corporal Eve Beckett, also of the 68th Squadron, was presented with the Non-commissioned Officer (NCO) of the Year Award.
Cllr Bradshaw said, “Since her promotion, Eve has taken on the role with enthusiasm and attention to detail. At first she was a little nervous, but soon made her presence felt and is now a valued NCO.”
The evening was attended by councillors and guests including mayors and representatives of other towns.
