Kingsclere villagers awarded for making a difference

Presentations by MP at village club

KINGSCLERE villagers who have made a difference to the close-knit community saw their efforts rewarded with an award presented by their MP on Friday.

Ten villagers received a Making A Difference award MP from North West Hampshire MP, Kit Malthouse, at Kingsclere Village Club for their voluntary work and also for their efforts above and beyond the call of duty.

An 11th, posthumous, award for the late Paul Read was accepted by his wife, Alyson Read, who attended the presentation with their children.

Mr Read’s award recognised his work as a founder member and projectionist for Kingsclere Film Club, which included re-installing the entire system when the hall at the village club was rebuilt, along with his work for Kingsclere Scouts and Kingsclere Methodist Church.

Mr Malthouse said the winners were all local people who had distinguished themselves in the community.

He said: “People like this are great examples of the decent and kind actions that keep communities up and running.”

Martin Beaver’s award marked his work with Kingsclere Beavers, Cubs and Scouts over many years, while Kingsclere Youth Football Club treasurer Ian Bowes has kept the club on a firm financial footing.

His wife, Liz, was also recognised for her 15 years service to Guiding.

Parish Paths co-ordinator for 30 years, Heath Denness’ award marked her knowledge and energy, as well as her work as a library volunteer, and committee member of Kingsclere Film Club.

Her husband, Alan Denness, was recognised for re-establishing Kingsclere Parish Council in 2012 and for negotiations to retain Kingsclere Community Library, along with his work for the village youth club, the Fieldgate Centre and parochial church council of St Mary’s Church.

Ted Dunn was rewarded for his work as treasurer of Kingsclere Tennis Club for 25 years, and as treasurer and churchwarden for St Mary’s church and printing work for the Kingsclere Tower magazine, while also caring for his wife, Pat.

Mark Hirst’s work as chairman of Kingsclere Cricket Club for two decades was rewarded and Pam Kitch’s award was for her work as secretary of a village care group, providing meals with a band of helpers.

Rachel Theaker was recognised for 30 years as a volunteer on the Kingsclere Charities Board and Margaret Ward’s award came for her efforts for Kingsclere’s Royal British Legion.