Individuals and groups in Melksham who have made a significant contribution to the community over the past year were honoured with Civic Awards at the Mayor’s Reception, held on Friday 22nd March at Melksham Assembly Hall. Representatives were welcomed by the Mayor of Melksham, cllr Simon Crundell.
The Melksham Civic Awards were presented by Melksham’s mayoress, Rose Hoskins, who presented 16 awards across four categories: the Achievement Award, the Community Award, the Enhancing Melksham Award and the Mayor’s Cadets Award.
The winners of the Achievement Award are: Lexi Czerwionka, a coach from Melksham Town Lionesses Under 10s football club; and Jayne Green and the team at Melksham School of Ballet, Tap & Modern Dance.
Winners of the Community Award are: Beth Dark, for work with Melksham Carnival and as a volunteer for the Melksham Lions Club; Melksham Christmas Lights; local residents, David and Caroline Williams; Laura Smith from HELP Counselling Service; Melksham Lions Club; Louisa Lewis, from Melksham Free Dining; Melksham and District Link; Melksham News; local resident, Terri Welch; and Wendy Clayton from Alzheimer’s Support.
Winners of the Enhancing Melksham Award are: Jack’s Kitchen; and Joe McCann from Melksham News.
Winners of the Mayor’s Cadets Award are: Army sergeant Shannon Bullock; and Air Cadet Taya Blackett.
Town Mayor councillor Simon Crundell said, “Congratulations to all the Civic Award winners of 2023/24. They truly display the best of Melksham, and we are lucky to have such community-oriented individuals and organisations among us. I would like to thank all the staff and volunteers involved for their dedication in organising this wonderful event. I am especially grateful to Sara Land, the mayor’s secretary, who managed the organisation, and to the Air Cadets, who volunteered their time to ensure the smooth running of the event.”
Achievement Awards
Two Achievement Awards were given; Lexi Czerwionka was recognised for her success coaching the Melksham Town Lionesses under 10s football club. Lexi, along with the coaches, helps create a safe and friendly environment for the girls to grow their confidence and improve their skills. Lexi also organised for the girls to do a sponsored walk to raise funds for Dorothy House.
Jayne Green and the team at Melksham School of Dance were recognised for their Christmas Showcase in December, which included various forms of dance such as tap, ballet, and modern. The showcase included a range of ages from three to 60 years old and Jayne created an inclusive and joy-filled event that captivated audiences.
Community Awards
A total of 10 community awards were given: Beth Dark was recognised for her 10 years of service with Melksham Carnival as well as volunteering in Melksham Lions Club; Melksham Christmas Lights were awarded for their dazzling festive displays every year around the town; and David and Caroline Williams were awarded for their involvement with Melksham Rugby Club, working in the bar and organising mini rugby for children, as well as helping children and parents in the nature reserve, educating along the way, and volunteering at Melksham Community Larder.
Laura Smith was recognised for her work around mental health within the HELP Counselling Service; the Melksham Lions Club was recognised for the support they give to the local community and charities through volunteer work and fundraising events.
Louisa Lewis was awarded for her work within Melksham Free Dining; Melksham and District Link were awarded for the support volunteers give to over 900 clients in Melksham and the parishes, taking them to and from their doctor appointments.
Melksham News was recognised for informing and entertaining residents as the town’s only local newspaper; Terri Welch, a stalwart of at least 30 years, was awarded for her work raising funds for the Adventure Centre, volunteering at parkrun and organising the Melksham Monday Movies club.
Wendy Clayton was recognised for her work with Alzheimer’s Support.
Enhancing Melksham Award
Two awards were given to members of the community who have helped to ‘enhance’ the town. Jack’s Kitchen was awarded for enhancing King George V Park (KGV) and increasing visitor numbers to the park.
Melksham News’ operations manager, Joe McCann, was awarded for his work in working with local councillors to advance projects, including installing lights in King George V Park.
Mayor’s Cadets Awards
Army sergeant Shannon Bullock was recognised for her ‘outstanding year’ where she has attended every community event; Air Cadet Taya Blackett was also recognised for being a member of the squadron for nearly two and a half years.
Each award category represents the achievements of individuals in different areas; the Achievement Award is for those who have excelled in their field or activity, including sports. The Community Award is given to anyone who has improved the quality of life for Melksham people; and the Enhancing Melksham Award is for anyone who has made an improvement to the physical environment in Melksham.
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