Local community heroes have been celebrated at the town’s annual Civic Awards.
The awards, organised by Warminster Town Council, recognise local people who demonstrate community spirit and have ‘gone the extra mile’.
Andy Clark was the winner of the Civic Award for his tireless work and passion with Warminster’s branch of the Royal British Legion. Jennie Gilling was awarded the Civic Green Award for her commitment and work with the Community Orchard. Phoebe Leigh Grant received the Junior Civic Award for her dedication and support as a young carer. The Mayor’s special award for kindness to the community went to Dave Crump, the town’s Number 50 bus driver.
The awards are nominated by the public and voted for by Warminster town councillors.
Andy Clark has helped the RBL branch become more active and inclusive, supports veterans and the local community through welfare visits and outreach, and educates young people via schools, cadet forces and community radio.
He said, “I am deeply honoured to be nominated, and more overwhelmed to actually be given the award.
“A person cannot get an award by themselves; it takes a lot of support from other people. That’s why I wanted to thank my family first of all, and also all of the organisations who I’ve worked with over the years, because I don’t just class it for this year.”
Jennie Gilling was awarded for her leadership of volunteers caring for Warminster Community Orchard. She also contributes to Sustainable Warminster, supporting local conservation, sustainable living and the protection of the town’s landscapes.
Jennie said, “I inherited the task of taking on the orchard, which has been a focus for the last year, from my husband who passed away. I took it on, and it’s been a very good thing for me to do, actually.
“There are a lot of ideas to carry it forward, and we have two events coming up, which are always popular. The wassail is the next one in January.”
Phoebe Leigh Grant was recognised for her dedication and support as a young carer. Phoebe is 14 years old and provides support every day to help her mum live independently.
Phoebe said she was “overwhelmed” to receive the award. Her mum said she was “very proud of her.”
Dave Crump, who drives the Number 50 bus within the town, was recognised for his friendliness and positivity. He also decorates his bus throughout the Christmas period for the community to enjoy.
Warminster Mayor, Andrew Cooper, said, “Dave is known by all for his kindness, his diligence, and for reaching out to help and support those who need care and reassurance.
“In short, Dave always goes significantly over and above his normal duties. Everybody knows him and everybody likes him. He is a true friend of Warminster.”
Dave said, “I sometimes think I’m just doing my job; I did not expect to get this!
“I’m blown away. It’s so nice to hear how much people value it in the community. This has opened my eyes to it.
“I love the area, and I love the people, and I think they know that.”
The winners were presented with certificates at an awards event on Monday 8th December. They celebrated alongside family, friends and town councillors, sharing afternoon tea together.
