Burghfield resident battling cancer nominated for Community Champion at Pride of Reading Awards

A renowned community figure has been recognised for all his hard work despite fighting a serious health condition.

Burghfield resident, Dave Godwin, has been nominated for Community Champion at this year’s Pride of Reading Awards, which is being sponsored by Reading Football Club.

But it wasn’t until recently that Mr Godwin heard about his nomination — and he still isn’t certain who put him forward for the award.

“I only knew about it when somebody sent me a WhatsApp message with my picture on it,” said Mr Godwin, who has lived in the village for 20 years.

During this time, he has helped organise the Burghfield Mayfare as chairman of the Burghfield Residents Association and is involved with the Burghfield Santas, which runs the annual Burghfest at the Recreation Ground on Burghfield Common.

But he says his community engagement started when he became a governor at Burghfield St Mary's Primary School, which his daughters attended — a role he maintains.

Mr Godwin manages his community involvement alongside his full-time job as an operations manager for a heating and electrical company and, more recently, a serious medical diagnosis.

“Going back before Christmas, I noticed there was something a little bit wrong,” added Mr Godwin.

“And after numerous tests, it turns out I’ve got cancer.”

Mr Godwin says he is still receiving treatment, but is continuing with his work and charitable pursuits — something he says surprises many people.

The Pride of Reading Awards confirms it has received a record number of nominations across all categories.

Everyone shortlisted for an award will be invited to an awards lunch and presentation on Friday, October 27 October at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in Reading.