‘Heroes’ of Weston-super-Mare recognised at awards ceremony

Bangla sanglap desk: The ‘heroes’ of Weston-super-Mare who go above and beyond to improve life in the seaside town have been recognised for their efforts.

Former mayor Councillor Mark Canniford handed out a number of mayor’s awards at a special church service and dinner.

The awards are presented each year by the outgoing mayor to those who have made a difference in the local community with their ‘inspirational’ and ‘dedicated’ work.

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Those receiving awards included Dr Paul Phillips, principal and chief executive of Weston College, Brigadier Tom Lang – retiring after many years of service to the community – and artist Martin Darcy for his art projects brightening up the seaside town.

The Friends of Grove Park and the Friends of Prince Consort Gardens also received awards for their ongoing work caring for the green spaces.

The Borough Shield – awarded annually to the person or organisation giving the greatest assistance to local charities – was presented to the Priory Learning Trust..

Councillor Canniford also made end-of-term presentations to his cadets Tom Neale and Eleanor Cush and his chaplain Rev Peter Ashman.
People and organisations which have helped during the coronavirus pandemic were also recognised and presented with certificates of appreciation by current mayor Councillor James Clayton.

These included Sayd Ahmed from Pappadoms Indian Takeaway who provided 14,000 free meals to NHS workers, emergency services personnel during the three lockdowns.

Sayd also provided meals to primary and secondary schools across Weston and to staff and pupils who had to attend school as they were children of key workers.

He has also continued to provide meals for the homeless two nights a week for the last 14 years, including throughout the pandemic.

Others to be presented with certificates of appreciation were the For all Healthy Living Centre, ROC Group – Redeeming our Communities

Big Worle, Helping People Volunteer Group, The Stable and Stable Café and the YMCA.

Mr Clayton said: “The certificates were given in appreciation of the partners who were working with Weston Town Council’s community response team.

“There were so many amazing organisations doing great things.

“We live in an amazing town.”

The awards were followed by the Mayor-making celebration dinner at the Royal Hotel.