MAYOR PRESENTS CIVIC AWARDS
THE BEST in Wokingham was celebrated with a special virtual ceremony last week, as coronavirus put paid to the real thing.
WokinghamTown Mayor Cllr Tony Lack introduced the proceedings of the Civic Awards, broadcast live over the internet on Friday night.
The event marks individuals who have undertaken outstanding community service in Wokingham town, or shown civic mindedness, personal courage, or service to family or community that is above and beyond the ordinary.
Each of the winners are nominated by residents, and these entries are judged by a selection panel including members of Wokingham Town Council's Civic Committee and the High Steward of Wokingham, Lucy Zeal. Wokingham.Today editor Phil Creighton is also part of the panel.
Cllr David Lee, who chairs Wokingham Town Council’s civic committee, was delighted with the quality of entries.
“Usually these people quietly carry on these goodworks in an unassuming way without seeking recognition or reward and bring untold happiness to so many of our residents from running youth groups, out of school activities to simply quietly helping others and I am delighted that they are recognised by their friends and colleagues by putting their names forward for an award.
“We have so many dedicated and selfless people running and helping these organisations on a day to day basis and it is a great honour to recognise some of these individuals each year through the Civic Awards ceremony.”
He felt that volunteering can bring more rewards than money can achieve and people would really enjoy it.
“If you want any help in finding opportunities contact Wokingham Town Hall and we will put you in touch; make 2021 the year to get involved.”
And Cllr Lack, who was joined for the ceremony by his wife Clare, said that the awards were one of the highlights of his year.
“It is when we recognise great people for doing great things for the greater good of our community and our chance to say thank you to those who have been recognised for going above and beyond in their charitable activities,” he said.
“Usually these awards are made to say Thank You to those who have made a big difference over a long period of time. But as expected this year includes Covid-19 supporters too.”