Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Trio rewarded for going the extra mile
A Royal British Legion stalwart, a wildlife volunteer and a woman who runs a community cafe for underprivileged children have all been presented with public service awards by the Lord Mayor of Canterbury.
The trio were honoured by Cllr Rosemary Doyle on Thursday at a civic gathering in the Guildhall in front of councillors, family and friends.
The first recipient was John Marsh, who has been involved with the Canterbury branch of the Royal British Legion since 1959 and served two periods as chairman. He became its standard bearer in 1987 but, at the age of 81, he will carry it for the last time at next month’s Remembrance service in the city.
The award recognises his “tremendous support, dedication and concern for others”.
Kent Wildlife Trust volunteer Chris Fulcher, from Whitstable, was the second recipient.
He is a member of its Shoresearch team and has been volunteering along the coastline since 1984. The award recognises his considerable knowledge and enthusiasm for recording of marine wildlife and the many independent surveys he has carried out. His colleagues say he is also welcoming and an inspiration to new members of the team.
The third award went to Caroline Mumford, from Whitstable, who set up the Umbrella Cafe to give opportunities to youngsters to work there, with the profits given to local charities.
Renowned for her cheerful outlook, she also co-ordinates a soup kitchen and supports organisations to help severely disabled children.
Now in its 19th year, the Lord Mayor’s Awards scheme honours people who go the extra mile to help others. Recipients are nominated by members of the public. The final judging is made by a cross-party panel of city councillors.
Cllr Doyle said: “We had nearly 70 nominations this year, which is testament to the extraordinary work carried out by the army of volunteers we are so fortunate to have in the district.
“It was very difficult to pick three out of the nominees as they were all so deserving. I was delighted to welcome the winners to the Guildhall, present their awards and say thank you for all their hard work.”