Bosley disaster helpers and service volunteers honoured

FIREFIGHTERS and community volunteers who worked tirelessly in the aftermath of the Bosley explosion were among those honoured in awards by the High Sheriff.

Brave fire crews who carried out a massive search operation at the explosion site and members of the village community Sylvia Jenkinson and Dorothy Gilman were honoured in the awards, which recognise valuable voluntary service.

The explosion at the wood mill on Tunstall Road killed four mill workers and devastated the community.

The High Sheriff of Cheshire, Bill Holroyd, is appointed by the Queen to represent her in matters relating to law and order and spends time supporting voluntary and statutory organisations including courts, the police and firefighters.

He gave awards to firefighters James Wilmott from Macclesfield, Alex Waller, Steve Barnes, Mike Clark, and Tam Blair, for their work at Bosley and other local incidents, as well as Steve Buckley and his search and rescue dog Bryn who have helped at disaster sites including the Nepal earthquake.

Sylvia Jenkinson and Dorothy Gilman were honoured for their work helping the Bosley community, including a massive fundraising campaign to help families.

Also honoured in the awards were Ann Wright, the CEO, and Bruce Taylor, chairman of trustees, at the Just Drop-in centre in Macclesfield.

Just Drop-In is a support service for 12 to 25-year-olds offering information or practical advice on matters such as employment, money or accommodation.

Members of the team at Cre8 youth group were also honoured. Pip Mosscrop, chairman and trustee, Rachel Bradley and Bev Frost were honoured for their work at the charity on the Moss Rose estate to provide projects and activities for young people and their families.

The awards were given at a special reception at the High Sheriff’s residence in Abbots Moss Hall, Oakmere in Northwich. During the evening Mr Holroyd spoke about each volunteer and why they deserved recognition, before presenting them with a framed certificate.

He said: “The pinnacle of my year as High Sheriff was the pleasure of acknowledging individuals and voluntary groups by presenting them with a High Sheriff Award.

“Throughout the year I have the opportunity to visit a wide variety of charities which left an impression on how those involved give their time for the benefit of others.”

‘[This is the] pinnacle of my year as High Sheriff’