DR James Willis and his wife Lesley have jointly won The Alton Society’s Outstanding Services to Alton Award for 2021.

The couple received their prize from Alton town mayor Cllr Pam Jones, who was accompanied by The Alton Society’s chairman David Simpkins, in a ceremony held inside the bandstand at Alton’s Public Gardens.

A number of their friends and other members of the society were there to enjoy the presentation.

The society said: "We are delighted to announce Dr James and Mrs Lesley Willis have won this year’s award for Outstanding Services to Alton.

"The award is given to those who have worked hard to make a difference in our town, through work, voluntary activity or both.

"A special panel is set up by the society to pick a winner from those nominated. The panel includes members of the society, ordinary members of the community, the town mayor and the former winner of the award.

"It can be given to joint winners, as in this case."

James and Lesley Willis have lived in Alton for nearly 50 years, James working as a highly-respected GP and Lesley as a biology teacher.

Both passionate environmentalists, they are founder and very active members of Alton Climate Action Network (ACAN) and the Alton Local Food Initiative.

They also share a love of performance arts and are long-standing members of the Alton Fringe, working both on stage and behind the scenes.

James was chairman of The Alton Society for three years and used his considerable knowledge and authority in the cause of the town to which he is so committed.

Lesley was a trained Citizens Advice Bureau volunteer for several years and both have been governors in local schools and colleges.

The society added: "These examples barely do justice to the passion and commitment they have brought to these and other causes in a lifetime of engagement in our public and civic life.

"They have made a demonstrable difference to the town which, as a result, has been incredibly enriched.

"When told about the award they were both surprised and astonished.

"They are delighted it is a joint award, recognising how well they support each other in their many endeavours."