Rotten, vandalised bench is replaced and dedicated
Resident Carol, who donated the original, memorialised on new town centre seat
TWO old benches that had become weather-worn and weak have been replaced.
One of the benches, on Mill Street, Leek, had a plaque dedicated to local resident Carol Oultram. Both have now been replaced by Fix360 repairs and maintenance service.
The plaque, which read “this bench was donated by Carol Oultram in May 2008 and the plaque is in memory of Carol, for all her hard work and commitment to improving the Neighbourhood” has been cleaned up and added to the new bench.
District councillor Ben Emery brought it to the attention of Fix360 who decided to step in and help.
A spokesperson for Fix360 said: “We were delighted to be able to help out and replace these benches for the community.
“The new benches were constructed and treated by our team, and the old plaque dedicated to Carol has been cleaned up and added.
“We hope that the local community are able to enjoy Carol’s bench for many more years to come.”
Carol’s brother David Oultram visited the bench in memory of his sister, along with Councillor Emery.
Councillor Emery, who represents the Leek West Ward on Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: “I was really pleased to help out as part when a family member mentioned to me that the benches opposite the Retreat Spa on Mill Street, Leek, had rotted and been subsequently vandalised, leaving two unusable benches.
“I was lucky to know an excellent officer on the district council, Vicki Ellis, who when contacted, was full of enthusiasm to further the project of getting them replaced.
“We now have two brand new timber benches for our residents, with a memorial dedicated to Carol Oultram on one, by the housing block she served as a motivated and caring resident on the residents committee.
“Many thanks to all involved in bringing this project to fruition, especially Fix360, who delivered the answer to our requirements.”