Burghclere parish councillor Bob Hills recognised for ‘exceptional service’ to community by Newbury Rotary Club

A Burghclere parish councillor was surprised with an award for his continued commitment to community service in the village.

Newbury Rotary Club presented Bob Hills with the Paul Harris Fellowship – the club’s highest award for community service – at a Burghclere residents’ regular Thursday coffee morning at the Church of the Ascension on October 26.

Newbury Rotary president Janet Lister was delighted to present Mr Hills with this prestigious award because “he fully exemplified and illustrated Rotary’s ethos of ‘service above self’.”

Rotary member Geoffrey Scott-Baker said: “Amongst friends who valued his cheery smile and willingness to lend a helping hand, octogenarian Bob was formally recognised for his long standing, dedicated support and service to the Burghclere community.

“In addition to his 26 years as a parish councillor and sometime chair, Bob’s long list of contributions includes Neighbourhood Watch coordinator, helping to set up the village’s miniature railway, organising quizzes, supporting the church and participating in the good neighbours scheme.

“It is Rotary’s practice to recognise exceptional service both within and outside their global membership, and Bob Hills will now be added to Newbury Rotary’s Paul Harris Fellowship of community champions.”