Annual Parish Meeting and Mynn Awards 2022
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On Wednesday 27th of April Bearsted Parish Council held their Annual Parish Meeting giving those in attendance an insightful update on their achievements over the past two years and also those of the local clubs, organisations, and societies.
The evening was well attended with over 70 residents and representatives gathering at Bearsted Golf Club to enjoy a chance to get together, catch up and share their experiences during what has been a challenging time for many within our community.
Michael Bollom took the chance to announce his retirement from the Parish Council explaining that after four years of service to residents his business commitments required more of his time. Before he left, he gave a detailed account of each of the committee’s accomplishments which were vast, widespread, and informative to many that did not understand the work that the Parish Council does. Special recognition was made to Brian Clifford who had sadly passed away with his wife being presented with a bouquet of flowers.
Following a short interval, the Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Fay Gooch presented a number of Community Certificates and Mynn Awards to many well-deserving residents which were as follows.
Liz Watts received a Community Certificate
A previous Mynn Award winner received recognition for her community spirit and dedication to
reducing plastic waste and increasing sustainability.
The Bearsted and Downswood Angels received a Community Certificate: Lisa Marie Foley, Georgia Barnes, Diana Blewett, Wendy Jennings, Kat Mann, Pamela Hargreaves, Ann Hirst, Wendy Patony, Olivia Cost and Jo Tribley
The group received recognition for their compassion, empathy, and dedication to helping those in
need during a difficult 18-month period. They coordinated food packages, easter eggs, gift packs to
children, and other items required during people’s time of need.
Judy Buckley was nominated for a Mynn Award by John Wale
Having worked closely with the Bearsted Woodland Trust Judy became the Website Editor and Newsletter Editor receiving commendation from Green Flag judges saying ‘it’s the best website we have seen for a charity”.
These communications are key elements to the public face of the Bearsted Woodland Trust and Judy’s tireless contribution has been hugely important to the Trust and the local community.
Anne Chalk was nominated for a Mynn Award by Rosemary Blout
Anne kept the Bearsted Green WI informed during the pandemic not only of activities but of local information, scams, and local criminal activities. She kept her group’s spirits up with poetry and uplifting photography of works of art and the countryside.
Mark Shaw was nominated for a Mynn Award by John Corbyn, presented by Curate Catherine Ngangira
Mark has a long history of commitment to and involvement in the community and church activities. His work has encompassed both young and old and includes 25 years of dedication to Roseacre Raisers.
Having set up ‘Home Angels’ for frail people needing assistance he went on to develop ‘Snow Angels’. Both groups offer practical help when required. Mark also arranges the Senior Citizens Christmas meal, takes a practical role in organising the Joint Churches Palm Sunday, and leads the Holy Cross’s Church Men’s Group.
Vernon Finch (not present) was nominated for a Mynn Award by Vanessa Wilson (not present). The award was accepted by his wife
The former Headmaster of the Bearsted School was integral in realising the need for a bigger equipped school to educate the children of Bearsted, introducing a professional level stage to enable the school’s much loved musical interests to be hosted for all to see.
Vernon was dedicated, innovative, and ahead of his time, keen to install a sense of musical appreciation in students that lead to musical instrument lessons taking place and even formed an orchestra. He demonstrated total dedication to the school, making a difference in the lives of the children of Bearsted and Thurnham.
John Leaf was nominated for a Mynn Award by Thomas Nugent
As the coach of the club’s youngest members along with being the Welfare Officer and referee co-ordinator John has dedicated himself to MPE FC showing up every weekend come rain or shine. He carries the goals from his garden down to Mallards Way in order to provide local children with a fun, safe, and enjoyable introduction to football.
John also marks out the tracks for the Downswood Olympics and can always be found behind the BBQ whenever events are taking place.