Crewkerne Town Council recognise residents as Honoured Citizens

The two residents who received the award at the Annual Town Meeting of Electors earlier this week were Dave Lumbard and Annette Roffey.

Mayor Alice Samuel said of Dave: "Central to Dave’s hobbies and passions is scouting.

“He started as a Cub Scout, moved through the sections and has held a number of leadership roles, including Group Scout Leader and District Commissioner.

“Throughout this time, he has supported many young people to grow, to develop and has helped them become grounded and considered citizens of the future.

“He leads from the front, but is also adept in enabling others to lead; he happily provides them with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful and whether young or old, novice or skilled, he helps them to shine.

“He acts selflessly as both a mentor and a guide.

“In over 40 years of leadership in 1st Crewkerne Scouts he has enabled hundreds of young people from Crewkerne and surrounding villages to flourish.

“This is irrespective of their gender, religion, ability or need. When the wider local community is taken into account, he has had a positive impact both directly and indirectly on the lives of thousands of young people".

“The second Honoured Citizen of 2024 is Annette Roffey. She will also be a familiar face to many, but sadly wasn't able to be at the meeting - we are hoping to catch her for a photo very soon.

“Annette was nominated for many reasons. She has always liked to be of help to many causes.

“When her two children were growing up she got involved with the local Rainbows group as well as karate at Maiden Beech School.

“When the Aqua Centre opened, Annette took on reception duties every Saturday for many many years.

“As a result of this, she became involved in the running of the Junior Triathlon every year.

“Christmas Lighting Up always needs more volunteers to raise money and spare pairs of hands to help out on the night – Annette gives her time freely and is always available.

“She has for many years shaken a collection bucket, marshalled the parade and accompanied Father Christmas, often as an elf in the grotto.

“She also willingly helps with putting up and taking down the small Christmas trees across the town centre each year.

“Amongst many other things, Annette has driven for the Crewkerne Voluntary Transport group when needed, ensuring groups can participate in their activities outside of Crewkerne.

“Since she retired, she has also put on her gardening gloves and helped Crewkerne in Bloom, winning several awards in the process.

“When Covid hit, Annette volunteered for the Be A Good Neighbour scheme, making sure everyone had the support they needed.

“She still, to this day, will not hesitate to pick up the telephone to check in with those she has been supporting.

“Annette is a person who loves Crewkerne and strives to help her community in many ways.

"She is known to many – without volunteers such as Annette working hard behind the scenes, there is so much that simply wouldn’t be able to happen in the town.”

Annette Roffey receiving the award from the Mayor (Image: Crewkerne Town Council)

Mayor’s Commendation Award 2024

Another special award was also made to Sarah Langdon of Crewkerne Brownies.

A Mayor's Commendation is made very rarely and recognises exceptional contributions to Crewkerne.

Mayor Alice Samuel said "Sarah was an obvious choice to receive this award. She leads her Brownies and young people with passion, keeping community right at the centre of their sessions.

“They learn from Sarah how to be good citizens of Crewkerne and it is always a pleasure to be a part of their meetings.

“This was recently illustrated when the accessible swing at Henhayes was vandalised beyond repair - Sarah and her young people raised over £400 for a replacement by selling cakes at the Farmers' Market. It is wonderful to be able to recognise Sarah in this way.

“Congratulations Dave, Annette and Sarah and thank you for all that you do for Crewkerne.”