TEN special people who have been quietly working to make Farnham a better place have had their efforts recognised at the 2017 Services to Farnham Awards.

The recipients were nominated for the award by colleagues and members of the public as a thank you for all that they do to inspire, provide leadership, care and vision.

The awards were presented by the Mayor of Farnham, John Ward, at a ceremony on Monday, February 27. First up was John Boas for his services to the community of Badshot Lea. John has made a significant contribution to the community of Badshot Lea for almost 50 years.

Projects he has helped implement in Badshot Lea, along with other villagers and businesses, range from the building of an indoor swimming pool for Badshot Lea Infant School to being a regular supporter of the village carnivals.

Following John was Pam Easey for services to Farnham Hospital, Royal Voluntary Service and the Downing Street Charity Shop - she has worked as a volunteer for more than 30 years.

Pam’s fellow volunteers always pay tribute to her conscientiousness, dedication, reliability and tireless service whether fundraising, serving meals on wheels or working in the charity shop.

Next up was Susan Farrow for services to the heritage of Farnham. Susan has contributed greatly to Farnham over the past 30 years, bringing considerable benefit and a legacy for future generations.

And she has made a significant personal impact through a wide range of community organisations including the Farnham Buildings Preservation Trust, the Farnham Swimming Baths Trust, the Farnham Society, the Farnham Public Art Trust and the Farnham Visitors’ Forum.

David Gill was recognised for his services to sport. David has a long track record of achievement in getting people involved in sport in Farnham for more than 30 years.

He is currently chairman of Farnham Sports Council, the voluntary director of Surrey Playing Fields Association and a trustee of the Surrey Cricket Foundation. He has been described as a born leader with great drive, commitment and enthusiasm.

Next up was Roger Hobbs for services to Farnham Hedgehogs. During his 30 years as a member, Roger has held office as chairman and been social secretary for more than 20 years.

An incredibly enthusiastic, totally dedicated and a highly valued member of the organisation, he is always the first to volunteer for any fundraising event and he makes a major contribution to the success of any activity in which he participates or organises.

Carol McFarlane was later awarded for her services to the communities of Hale and Sandy Hill. Carol established and runs the Opportunities Community Project, which helps single parents and returners to work.

As an indication of Carol’s effective contribution since Opportunities was created 10 years ago, many of the former students are working and some have attended college and have further qualifications including degrees.

Peter Sauter was recognised for his services to Farnham Brass Band, where he has been a member for 30 years. Over the years Peter has been involved in many key activities including fundraising events for new band uniforms, and organising two trips to Switzerland and return visits from Swiss and German bands.

Peter has been very much the public face of the Farnham Brass Band, and remains a strong player in the band with a notable talent of being able to take on organisational work when needed, and as his nominator says “we are lucky to have him”.

Another winner was Peter Seager for services to CARE Farnham. Peter has been a member of CARE Farnham for more than 15 years, and has recently stepped down as chairman after seven years.

Prior to this Peter was the co-ordinator juggling approximately 3,000 CARE Farnham trips annually with up to 100 voluntary drivers taking clients to hospital, doctors and other appointments.

Sue Weaver was awarded for her services to young people through Change of Scene. As founder and voluntary chief officer at Change of Scene, Sue provides a place of calmness and a sanctuary for vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Farnham.

Her skill, vision and tireless dedication in making a life-changing difference for disadvantaged young people is demonstrated by her success.

As a result, Sue and her team have developed Change of Scene into a well-respected charity and an acknowledged centre of learning.

Another winner was Susan Wells for services to 1st Farnham Girls’ Brigade. Susan has been captain of the Girls’ Brigade for 31 years and is currently deputy commissioner of the Surrey Downs District of the Girls’ Brigade.

Susan has given her time tirelessly to the Girls’ Brigade for decades and organises activities for three separate groups every week. She also takes the girls out to Girls’ Brigade events and the annual camp lasting at least five days.

Speaking at the ceremony, John Ward, Mayor of Farnham, said: “I never cease to be amazed by the depth, quality and achievements of the huge number of Farnham’s volunteers who represent a spirit of helpfulness, cheerfulness and dedication for our community.

“Their efforts support many important facilities and services including care of the elderly, activities of all kinds and for all ages and elements of the fabric of our town like the museum and library.

“My thanks and congratulations go to each and every recipient of the Services to Farnham Awards 2017 for their high level of commitment and achievement.”

The Services to Farnham Awards are inspired and sponsored by Sir Ray Tindle CBE DL.