Community heroes in Knutsford were recognised this week through the presentation of the annual Knutsford Town Awards.
The awards ceremony, held at St John’s Church, was delivered by Knutsford Town Council and sponsored by the Forum of Private Business.
The event seeks to recognise the contributions made by individuals, groups and businesses to the community of Knutsford.
Speaking at the awards, town mayor Cllr Neil Forbes said: “just being shortlisted is a huge accomplishment, it shows that there are people in the Knutsford community who have seen what you do and are impressed enough to take time out of their day to write to the Town Council and tell us about it.”
The Youth Award was presented to twelve-year-old Emily Coffey for her voluntary work with the Knutsford First Responders which has seen her attending Heart Start courses, fundraising and qualifying as a facilitator of their training.
Five community volunteers were shortlisted for the Civic Award this year, with a total of three awards to be handed out.
The first Civic Award went to Stuart Willis for his voluntary work with the Knutsford Fire Cadets and Knutsford Community First Responders.
Debbie Jamison picked up the second Civic Award of 2018 for her role in setting up the Knutsford Residents of Over Ward group and her time as chair of Friends of the Moor.
Welcome Cafe volunteer Hazel Cussons picked up the final Civic Award, having also been shortlisted for the 2017 awards.
Shortlisted for the Civic Award this year were: Sue Banks (dedicated service to the Guides in Knutsford) and Michele Hammond (work fundraising for 1st Knutsford Scouts and her role on the committees of Friends of the Moor and the St Vincent’s PTA).
The 2018 Community Award went to the volunteers of Lower Moss Wood. Lower Moss Wood provides sanctuary for sick and injured wildlife, supported by its numerous volunteers, it provides around-the-clock care and feeding.
It also caters for educational visits for children, along with many volunteering opportunities – all whilst treating around 2,000 animal casualties per year.
Knutsford League of Hospital Friends and Knutsford Friendship Cafe were also shortlisted for the Community Award.
In a twist to previous years, Knutsford town mayor Cllr Neil Forbes announced that the panel had decided to award its first discretionary Special Award to Knitsford – the knitting group behind the knitted poppy displays each November.
Cllr Forbes commented as he announced the award: “As 2018 sees us commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War it is fitting to present a special award to the Knutsford Knitting Club in recognition of their incredible displays.”
The Business Award went to Julia Chard of Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe for her instrumental role in founding both the Pumpkin Path and Bunny Hop as well as her ongoing support for community organisations throughout the years.
The final presentation of the evening went to Peter Murray of Pulse of Perfumery, who won the first Business Award in 2013 and was presented with a Commendation in recognition of his being nominated for an award every year since.
