Dursley Town Council honoured members of their community who have gone the extra mile during an awards ceremony held as part of their annual general meeting last week.

Last Tuesday, a packed room at The Chantry Centre applauded the dedication of the individuals who were recognised as part of the annual Leslie D Gale Awards which were presented by Dursley mayor Neil Grecian.

Among those recognised were a former town mayor who currently chairs Dursley and Cam Royal British Legion, a couple whose energy and enthusiasm have helped to realise so many beneficial projects with Dursley as well as a relatively new resident of the town who has been the figurehead behind many fundraising projects for Dursley.

Although Chris and Linda Cherry were nominated to receive their award for a number of the initiatives that they have been involved in - not least the sculpture trail, health walks and their work within Breakheart Quarry - Mayor Grecian paid particular tribute to their involvement in Dursley Welcomes.

"Chris has been chairman and Linda publicity officer for the Dursley Welcomes walkers' festival steering group for the last 7 years," said Mayor Grecian.

"The festival has helped to put Dursley more firmly on the map and none of this would have been possible without their energy and enthusiasm for walking and Dursley."

Newcomer Tom Arnold, who only moved to the town a few years ago was also honoured for his involvement in fundraising for Festive Dursley.

Aside from organising numerous events to raise money for the pivotal event in the town's calendar Tom is fundraising to raise money for the town's Christmas lights, volunteered for Dursley carnival and hosted the first street party in the town since 1997 to celebrate the wedding of Prince harry and Meghan Markle.

Commenting as he presented the award the mayor said: "During the snow storms this year, Tom took it upon himself to clear snow on the paths and road along the whole of Parsonage Street, Silver Street and Long Street, spending hours making it safer for others to walk in the bad weather.

"He continues to be a lively, dedicated and friendly resident of this town, despite not being native to the area. It is with pleasure that I present the Leslie Gale Award to Tom for his services to Dursley."

Perhaps the loudest applause on the evening went to the recognition that Cllr Jane Ball received for her commitment, service and 'cheerful efficiency' whilst dedicating at least two decades of her time to various civil and community roles.

Cllr Bell has been both a governor and a chair of governors for Everlands School, is the longest serving Dursley town councillor and held the position of mayor for a decade.

Outside of her commitments to the council Jane's knowledge and interest in the welfare of Dursley and its inhabitants was acknowledged, as well as chairing both the Dursley and Cam Branch of the Royal British Legion and the League of Friends for the Vale Community Hospital. All whilst running Dursley Community Centre with her husband.

"I am sure by now, everyone in the room will be aware of the lady in question. The last year has been difficult as she has had some serious health issues but, whenever possible, she has still carried out her duties with her usual efficiency and cheerfulness. I sure that everyone here wishes her a speedy recovery. So, it gives me enormous pleasure to present this award to Jane Ball.

Addressing the packed audience Mayor Grecian said that: "The Leslie Gale Award recognises not only the longevity of service to the community but also its impact. [Cllr Ball] perfectly fits both criteria and it could be argued that maybe the award to her is long overdue."

Ms Kate Reynolds was also nominated by Cllr Loraine Patrick for the 'unsung hero award' as a vital member of the Dursley and Cam Royal British Legion branch.

Although that present to receive her award at the ceremony Mayor Grecian said that it was a pleasure to announce Ms Reynolds as the award recipient who had also been instrumental in 'yarn bombing' Dursley last November as part of the Remembrance Sunday events.

"For the past 5 years, Kate has been the main organiser of the poppy proms, held at the Chantry Centre each year which are enjoyed by many of the town’s residents, " Mayor Grecian added.

"Away from her duties with the Royal British Legion, Kate is actively involved with the Festive Dursley event."