UNSUNG heroes have been honoured at a civic reception at the Royal Pump Rooms in Leamington.
The special evening, held on Friday October 3, acknowledged the people who have rendered eminent services to the district.
Three former councillors were awarded Alderman and Alderwoman status, and 12 individuals were awarded Freeman and Freewoman of the District.
“Freedom of the District” is an honorary title awarded by Warwick District Council as a mark of distinction.
The first individuals to receive this award are:
• Jon Holmes for 50 years’ service to WDC and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust
• Jennifer Heath of Whitnash Youth Club, Dementia Cafe and Chatternatters
• Dawid Kozlowski for Humanitarian Aid and local cultural events
• Gian Clare of the United Nations Association
• Richard Philips retired festival director of Leamington Music
• Anthony Britton of the Pam Britton Trust for Dementia and The Little Pocket book of Support
• Margaret Rushton of Leamington History Group
• Carole Sleight for arts and community engagement
• Margaret Kite for 30 years of volunteer work for local charities
• Andrew Emm for volunteer groups at Dale Street Methodist Church
• Bridget Halpin, a girlguiding volunteer
• Julie Brown, a girlguiding volunteer
The status of Alderman/Alderwoman is also an honorary title from the council for any former councillor who, in the opinion of the council, has rendered “eminent services to the authority”.
The past councillors who received the Alderman/Alderwoman of the district are:
• Alderman Margaret Begg for 23 years as district councillor
• Alderman Michael Coker for 49 years as a district and town councillor
• Alderwoman Jane Knight for 16 years as district councillor
WDC chairman Coun Naveen Tangri said: “It is an honour and a privilege to have awarded these exceptional individuals with the recognition they so thoroughly deserve.
“These are individuals that have worked tirelessly for the betterment of their community over the decades, and it is only fitting that as part of this council’s 50th anniversary celebrations that we acknowledge those who have done so much to ensure our communities thrive.”
