Three ‘community heroes’ in the Burnham-On-Sea area have been recognised for their work by Somerset County Council’s Chairman.
Councillor Christine Lawrence has presented 54 Chairman’s Awards for services to the county’s community to those who have dedicated their time and energy to others.
The awards evening at Taunton Rugby Club recognised a total of 62 people who have helped their neighbours, as well as village and town organisations, events, and charities.
Somerset County Council’s Chairman, Christine Lawrence, said: “The high calibre of awards presented this year goes to show that community spirit is alive and well and living in Somerset. We heard remarkable stories of what people in all walks of life carry out, things that might not otherwise happen without their goodwill.”
The local winners included Michael Schollar from the village of Mark, pictured above.
Mike was first associated with Mark Parish Council in 2000 and retired in 2015. During this period he formed a Play Area Committee in the Mark Recreation Area and became responsible for renewing equipment and making purchases. After the committee was disbanded he continued his interest by ensuring that the area remained serviceable. He was also a member of Mark Multi-Use Game Area and the Skate Park Area Committee throughout their development.
Mike has been instrumental in making a major contribution to the Mark Recreational Area which has resulted in number of acknowledgements from the Somerset Playing Fields’ Association, across many years including in 2014 the award of the Wood Trophy by the Somerset Playing Fields’ Association in recognition of its contribution to the provision of community play and sporting facilities and in 2105 the Somerset Playing Fields’ Association Silver Award. Mike was also instrumental in establishing and organising Mark Community Speedwatch, a vital contribution to village safety.
“Mike’s energy and persistence is a shining example of commitment to Mark and rural communities in general and he is wholly commended for a Chairman’s Award,” said Councillor Christine Lawrence.
Trevor Difford from Berrow, pictured right, also received an award.
Trevor is Hall Manager at Berrow Village Hall but he is also so much more. He helps out at all the local fundraising events and is always cheerful and good humoured.
Trevor always has time to listen to any problems and generally has an answer and often has the tools and materials to hand to complete the job. If Trevor can’t do the job then it is likely that he will know a man that can. Lately it has been a difficult time for Trevor and his family. Those in his community believe this award will demonstrate to Trevor just how highly he is thought of by all those who use the Hall, the Parish Council and the Community of Berrow. Thank you Trevor for all that you do.
The third local winner is Susan Hayes from the village of Biddisham. Sue has served her community tirelessly and selflessly for nearly 19 years on Badgworth Parish Council. Initially as Clerk, Sue then served as Councillor for 3 years and Chairman for 12 years. Sue also served at Weare School on the Board of Governors and as a finance officer. Sue cares passionately about the countryside and the people who live there and has worked hard to protect it for future generations to enjoy. To further the interests of the Parish she developed hugely beneficial relationships with County and District Councils as well as the local MP.
This has provided tangible benefits such as a new defibrillator for the villages, as well as support for important issues. Her dedication and commitment has ensured that every issue affecting the Parish has received her attention. Her whole hearted involvement in every aspect of the Parish has required considerable personal sacrifice of her time.
“There is no doubt the Parish is a better place because of her work ethic and selfless dedication to the whole community for which she deserves full recognition,” said Councillor Christine Lawrence.
