Community Award Scheme

 Fillongley Parish Community Award Scheme 

Do you know an unsung hero? Someone who has helped our community, quietly working away to make sure that things run smoothly for others? 

Previous recipients have been; 

Mavis Hopkins – for her tireless work regenerating the village hall, helping start up the History Group, the short mat bowls group, Golden Years, dance classes etc… the list goes on. 

John Taylor – for his unceasing work in all aspects of community engagement. Working hard on the village hall committee, youth club, Fillongley Show, gardening club to name but a few. 

David & Elizabeth Smitham – Between them David and Elizabeth have helped out for years in Bournebrook School for years with Cookery Club, Sewing Club and Handbells. David has edited the Parish magazine for more years than most remember and also runs the voluntary Handbell ringing group who entertain at old peoples homes etc. Elizabeth has also been a Guide Leader for over 40 years. 

Mavis Winterburn – Mavis has been the laundry service to Fillongley Football Club for over 40 years. Councillors were trying to calculate how many smelly socks she has washed for 2 teams every Saturday during that time and came to the answer – a lot! 

Eric Hammond – “Mr Cricket” Eric has supported the Fillongley Cricket Club in every single aspect over his entire time in the village. He also supports the Parish by mowing the grass at the crossroads every week and providing fuel for the upkeep of Fillongley Cemetery and War Memorial. 

Eddie Jones – In recent years Eddie has, almost single-handedly rejuvenated the Fillongley Fete. It started by organising a music event to raise money for the Village Hall, then he realised that people didn’t want to go and why not make a day of it – Fete in the day and music at night…. So it has grown… the fete is now such a large job that by the evening Eddie collapses and the music is no more… but you never know when it may come back! Eddie has also provided and run a PA system for village events such as the celebratory Beacon, visit by HRH Duke of Kent etc. 

Jo Hooke – was nominated for the award after overseeing the renovation of the Fillongley War Memorial back to its former glory a centenary after it was erected, and also tireless investigation into the lives of the men who are commemorated on it. Unfortunately, she had to wait to celebrate due to the Covid pandemic.   Jo regularly gives talks to local groups about the Fillongley fallen soldiers.  We will remember them.

William Antrobus – was nominated following the Queens Platinum Jubilee.  He has been recognised for his ongoing work behind the scenes in the Parish, but particularly with regard to the generous donation of time, expertise, equipment and land that he regularly gives in order for the community to come together to celebrate landmark events such as the centerary of the end of the First World War, the Queens Diamond and Platinum Jubilees and also the Queens 90th birthday.  Without Williams help and generosity the community would be a poorer place.

Most of these people were nominated for one thing but when you ask around, it becomes apparent that in fact they help out in other areas too. 

What thanks do they get?! Well, a small party and their name on the Roll of Honour. 

What do we get? A chance to say thank you. Councillors are often told what a busy Parish we have with lots going on. Without the volunteers, it wouldn’t be like it is with so much for us to participate in if we wish to. 

So, who is next? There are no deadlines, just drop a call or an email to the Parish Clerk or one of your Councillors with a name and a reason. Please help us to reach out and give thanks where it is due. 

clerk@fillongleyparishcouncil.co.uk 01676549193