Five residents from across the borough have been recognised in this year’s Mayor of Bromley Awards ceremony, which has taken place annually for the past 30 years.
Many Bromley residents who have performed outstanding voluntary service have been nominated to receive the Mayor’s Award. The awards range from charity work to improving the environment to supporting the community, and so much more.
The Mayor of Bromley paid tribute to the voluntary heroes of our community at the awards ceremony. Councillor Russell L. Mellor said, “As a token of gratitude, Bromley Council has always been honoured to award the borough’s wonderful volunteers. I was delighted to continue the tradition and acknowledge the contribution made by the volunteers by presenting them with these awards. All of the nominees are doing amazing things in our borough, but these five are particularly special.”
The five award winners were especially chosen by the Mayor following an initial call for nominations. Bromley GP Dr Yohannes Bahru was awarded for his service and dedication to supporting ‘hard to reach’ community groups and staff in Bromley who have had genuine concerns regarding COVID-19, contributing to the success of the vaccination programme.
Mrs Diane Hatch was awarded for her contributions to the Mind charity in Bromley, Lewisham, and Greenwich by raising funds through her organised charity Christmas Carol Service at Christ Church in Petts Wood.
Mr Walter Leonard, founder of the ‘Friends of Betts Park’ in 2020, was awarded for his service leading the rejuvenation of the park and his additional service as the Chairman of the Crystal Palace Safer Neighbourhood Board.
Young local resident Miss Holly Rattenbury was awarded for her voluntary service at Hoblingwell Recreation Ground, assisting with park clubs and coaching local children in sports and fitness activities.
Mr Alan Woolston was awarded for his involvement in a number of charities over the past two decades, including his self-established ‘Beyond Business’ programme for social entrepreneurs which has launched over 55 socially focused businesses.
A huge thank you goes to Buller's Wood School for Girls for catering this event as part of their school curriculum. The awards were presented in person by the Mayor at the Civic Centre on Tuesday evening 1 March. Dr Bahru was unfortunately unable to attend the ceremony and his award was accepted on his behalf by Dr Ade Fowler.
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For media enquiries, please contact David Aderogba, public affairs officer, on 020 8313 4745 or email david.aderogba@bromley.gov.uk