Mayor's awards for community helpers and fundraisers

Since 2002, the town mayor has made an award to the person or people who have done the most for the community or for other residents in Sandy and Beeston.

This year’s awards were presented at the annual town meeting on Monday, April 25.

The Mayor, Cllr Will Jackson, reported that a high number of nominations had been received making it hard to choose deserving candidates.

The Mayor’s Youth Award was presented to Charlie Culverhouse and Frankie Byrne. Charlie had organised a Swimathon in memory of his deputy head teacher. He encouraged other school members and friends to join him and together they raised £7,520 for Sue Ryder. Frankie has taken part in a number of events raising money for the British Heart Foundation, St. John’s Hospice and the National Autistic Society. Frankie took part in a Swimathon for St John’s Hospice, he had only ever swam 25 metres before but managed to complete 25 lengths of the pool and raised over £1,500 in sponsorship.

The Mayor’s Citizens award was presented to David Woodhouse.

David started volunteering for Sandy’s Talk of the Town Community transport in 2002. He has carried out a number of roles within the group such as volunteer driver, secretary and chairman, often spending 10 hours a week on the service.

This year a certificate was also presented to Hayley Stewart as runner up. Hayley has been involved with the Sandy Show for 27 years and the Sandy Carnival for 12 years. Recently she has also joined the Friends of Sandy Christmas Lights Committee.

The Mayor’s Community Group award was presented to Sandy Fire and Rescue Service who not only help in times of emergencies but also fit smoke alarms for elderly people, fundraise for various charities and attend community events such as the Christmas lights switch-on and the carnival.