Local Heroes
Friday, May 2nd, 2008
Last month I began my quest to find a local hero to join me at a National Award Ceremony at the House of Commons. The response I received was overwhelming.
West Suffolk is very lucky to have so many people who spend a considerable amount of their time and energy helping others. I am constantly amazed at the commitment of our volunteers and I’d like to congratulate everyone who was nominated this time round.
Nominations included an 80 year old gentleman who has for many years worked in the Newmarket Hospital WRVS shop, the World War II veteran who runs tea/coffee mornings for the Scout Association and the many volunteers who work tirelessly for such wonderful charities as the British Red Cross and Victim Support.
The contribution of all those nominated was so outstanding that I found it very difficult to pick a winner. However one lady’s dedication and commitment did stand out.
Mrs Gwen Dalton of Haverhill is a member of the local Residents Association and the Safer Neighbourhood Tasking Team. She has for many years worked tirelessly to improve the town and the surrounding area where she lives. Those who nominated her wrote of her heart of gold and lively enthusiasm for helping others.
I am looking forward to meeting Mrs Dalton today in the constituency to congratulate her on her nomination and finding out more about her outstanding work.
It is volunteers who so often provide the oil in the wheels of our communities, and who are all too often unacknowledged and underappreciated. They are all local heroes.