Honours go to local people helping their local community

LOCAL people from West Somerset have been recognised by the chairman of Somerset County Council for their work in the community.
The Chairman’s Awards for service to the community recognise individuals, partners and groups who have made a significant contribution to their local community.
Four nominees from West Somerset who received framed certificates in recognition of their efforts were Sue Hayes, of Winsford, John Lees, from Bicknoller, Enid Mantin, of Cutcombe, and Kevin Escott, who lives in Minehead.
The overall district prize went to Mr Escott for his support of the Minehead Lifeboat Station, where he has served as a crew member, shore helper, and fund-raiser during the past 60 years.
Mr Escott was presented by county council chairman Councillor Alan Gloak with an engraved crystal clock at a ceremony in Glastonbury Town Hall.
Youth service officers across the county were also asked to nominate young people who had made a significant contribution to their community or other young people, or who had successfully represented the young people of Somerset.
Each youngster received a framed certificate and an engraved glass trophy.
Among those recognised was Terri-Marie Joyner, of Minehead, for her commitment to developing the Norton Fitzwarren Youth Club during the past two years.
Councillor Gloak said: “This is an ideal opportunity to thank those people who give up their time and energy for the benefit of their communities.
“It is right that we should highlight and celebrate their work so that it does not go unnoticed.”
County health and well-being portfolio holder, Councillor Justin Robinson, said: “Somerset is a wonderful place to live and work, and is built on the strong communities that exist everywhere across the county.
“It is encouraging to see so many local people making a positive difference to community life in Somerset.”

Our photographs show Councillor Gloak presenting certificates to (from the top) Sue Hayes, John Lees, and Terri-Marie Joyner, and (BOTTOM) Enid Mantin with her certificate being congratulated by West Somerset district and Cutcombe parish Councillor Roger Webber (right) and other locals. Kevin Escott was unable to attend the awards ceremony. Photos submitted.

Dulverton residents invited to drop-in to raise community concerns

A DROP-in session is being held in Dulverton to allow local residents to meet representatives of a range of community service organisations and raise any issues of concern
It takes place in Dulverton Town Hall (pictured) between 10.30 am and 12 noon on Wednesday, November 21.
Police, West Somerset Council, Magna West Somerset Housing Association, the county youth service, and Dulverton Town Council will be among the organisations represented.
Residents will be able to discuss any community safety issues or other matters that they would like to raise.
District council community safety officer Pete Hughes said: “West Somerset has low levels of crime but that is no reason to rest on our laurels.
“The council and its partner agencies are working hard to ensure that levels remain low, and a part of this work involves going out into the community and understanding their concerns.
“This is a good opportunity to listen to local residents and, in many cases we can offer reassurance or give further advice on the day.
“However, it also gives us an insight into how the community perceives crime and disorder, and how we may be able to act on their information in future.”
Anybody is welcome at the drop-in session and light refreshments will be available.
People who cannot make the event are being advised to contact the appropriate agency if they have specific concerns.
More drop-in sessions will be held in Dulverton on future dates to provide the community with further opportunities to meet representatives from the agencies.