Local heroes celebrated at the Lord Mayor’s Awards

Three unsung heroes have been presented with Lord Mayor’s Awards to recognise the brilliant work they do to help others.

The award celebrates community heroes living in Canterbury, Herne Bay, Whitstable and the villages.

At a special ceremony at Tower House last Wednesday (24 January), this year’s deserving winners were revealed by the Lord Mayor of Canterbury, Cllr Jean Butcher.

The first recipient was Alex Richardson from Herne Bay who runs Keep Talking Services, a telephone befriending service supporting local people with mental health issues and those struggling with social isolation and loneliness. 

Having been founded in response to the surge in loneliness sparked by Covid-19, the charity now has more than 50 student volunteers providing companionship and support through weekly calls with clients. 

Alex’s nominations cite how he goes above and beyond to help those struggling in the community, such as hand-delivering Christmas gifts and birthday cards to clients experiencing loneliness.

The second recipient was Enid Gould from Rough Common whose nomination detailed her many years of voluntary work, having dedicated more than 40 years to supporting Canterbury’s voluntary organisations such as the League of Friends of the Kent and Canterbury Hospital, the Rough Common Group and the Canterbury City Centre Group.

After beginning her voluntary work more than 60 years ago in London, Enid continues to volunteer in the League of Friends of the Kent and Canterbury Hospital shop and advises the organisation’s groups each week as a Trustee.

Sian Pettman from Canterbury was the final award winner, having been nominated for her extensive community work to establish and care for Canterbury’s open spaces and to protect local wildlife and biodiversity. 

Her nomination details the instrumental role she plays in organising key community initiatives such as the recent Great Stour Riverfest and Great British Spring Clean litter picks as well as setting up the Kingsmead Field village green, citing how generously she gives her time without expecting anything in return.

Cllr Butcher said: “I am incredibly proud to be shining a light on these local heroes and their unwavering commitment to their community through the Lord Mayor’s Award. 

“We had some wonderful nominations, so picking the winners was no easy task, but those chosen undoubtedly deserve huge recognition for all that they do.

“People like Alex, Enid and Sian, and their selfless dedication to improving the lives of others, really do make the district a better place to live, work and visit.”

Pictured above, from left to right, are Enid Gould, Sian Pettman, Alex Richardson, Lady Mayoress Di Baldock and Lord Mayor Cllr Jean Butcher. 

Published: 29 January 2024