Singing the praises of our unsung heroes

Unsung heroes from the district have been presented with a Lord Mayor's Award in recognition of their efforts to help other people.

The annual Lord Mayor's Award scheme is now in its 14th year and honours people who go the extra mile to help others. They are nominated by members of the public, and the final judging is made by a cross-party panel of councillors. This year’s awards also feature a special Diamond Jubilee Award in the year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The winners and extracts from their citations are: 

• Peter Woolgar, of Northwood Road, Whitstable, wins the Diamond Jubilee Award. Peter is nominated for his lifetime of work in the Scout movement over more than 40 years. His nominator says: “Being a member of the Scouts under Peter’s leadership is one of my most treasured memories and I learned so much from him, lessons I took with me into adulthood. Peter has given of himself selflessly, devotedly and totally to the safe passage of children into adult life.”
• Eleanor (Elle) Caldon, of Field Avenue, Canterbury. Elle is the founder and director of the Mustard Seed Singers, which was formed in 2007 and consists of people experiencing mental illness, their carers and supporters. Her nominator says: “Elle’s strong commitment and inspiring leadership has lifted the confidence of the group and she has played a pivotal role in promoting mental wellbeing through singing.”
• Colleen Ashwin-Kean of Central Parade, Herne Bay. Colleen has been part of the Herne Bay in Bloom Committee for seven years, taking on the role of secretary since her retirement. Last year, the town won a Gold Award. Her nominator says: “Everything Colleen does is in her own time and without payment. Her reward is seeing the district she lives in being the best it can be.”
• Patricia (Pat) Cook, of Windsor Road, Canterbury. Pat is a dedicated youth worker in the Thanington area, organising community events and visiting older or sick people to help with shopping or taking them to medical appointments. She also buys prizes for activities out of her own money. Her nominator says: “Pat is the kindest person I know. She would (and does) do anything for anyone.”

All four winners received their awards from the Lord Mayor of Canterbury, Cllr Robert Waters, at a meeting of the full council at the Guildhall in Canterbury last night (Thursday 27 September).

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