Mayoral Awards

As mayor, I’ve launched the 2008 Awards to recognise the contribution of residents and businesses that make a positive difference to Chesham’s community. They are sponsored by the Buckinghamshire Examiner and there are three categories:

• the People’s Award, open to all ages, which recognises those who have helped Chesham and its people, supported local charitable work or demonstrated outstanding citizenship

• the Rafe Chiles Young Person’s Award in memory of Rafe who worked to make Chesham a better place for young people. It is for people aged up to 25 who have made a positive difference to the lives of young people in Chesham

• the Business Award, supported by Chesham’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce, to celebrate businesses or retail outlets in Chesham that contribute to the community through community projects, environmental activities or charitable work.

I have come across so many people who do so much for their neighbours and the environment of Chesham, it would be nice if some receive official recognition. Cllr Mohammad Bhatti who was mayor in 2004, instigated the scheme to acknowledge such unsung citizens and I urge everyone to continue this tradition by making a nomination. Closing date is Monday 31 March and nomination forms are available at the town hall in Baines Walk, call 01494 774842. The winners of the People’s and Rafe Chiles Awards each receive £150 for their cause and the winner of the Business Award will receive a specially engraved trophy. All the Awards will be presented at the Annual Town Meeting on Thursday 15 May.