Three volunteers from County Durham have been recognised for their exceptional contributions to their local communities.
Betty Minto, Christine Clarke, and James Holden were awarded the Chairman’s Medal by the Chairman of Durham County Council, Councillor Joan Nicholson.
Betty and Christine have played pivotal roles in revitalising Burnopfield Community Centre. Their efforts have significantly improved the centre’s fortunes since Betty first became involved in 2006.
Working together, head trustee Betty and treasurer Christine have proven a formidable duo, bringing community services, clubs, bingo and a daycare nursery to the venue.
They rallied to serve breakfasts and dinners to people affected by power cuts during the 2021 storms and one of their most recent ventures is a new community shop.
Green-fingered James has transformed the flower beds at Bowes Court flats in Newton Hall, where he lives.
Spotting they were in need of some “TLC” several years ago, James stepped in and got planting.
And he’s not stopped since – the beds are now home to a colourful array of plants and flowers enjoyed by the flats’ residents.
The Chairman’s Medal is the highest honour that Durham County Council can award to individuals and organisations for their outstanding voluntary contribution to the county.
“People like Betty, Christine and James make such a huge difference to their local communities.
“In Betty and Christine’s case, they’ve built a thriving community venue and everything taking place in there is changing the lives of local people for the better.
“The flats where James lives are primarily occupied by older people, and the fruits of his hard work not only brighten up the place itself but also the lives of those who live there.
“It was my great pleasure to present them each with a Chairman’s Medal and thank them for their respective contributions.”
Cllr Joan Nicholson, Chair of Durham County Council
To find out more about the Chairman’s Medal scheme, visit: www.durham.gov.uk/chairmansmedal.
