Couple win award for village help

A COUPLE from Whitchurch have received an award for their contribution to the village.

Richard and Susan Scearce, of Manor Road, were presented with a trophy by parish council chairman Jim Donahue who described them as “unsung” heroes.

They received the annual award, which is administered by the Whitchurch Society, for their efforts with the church and the village hall at the annual village assembly.

Mr Scearce, 80, has also been a caretaker of the village hall for 10 years as well as steeplekeeper at the church.

Mrs Scearce helps run the weekly community coffee mornings in the Old Stables.

Mr Scearce said he never expected to win the award. “It is amazing,” he said. “I thought we would be the last people in the world to win. I never expected it.

“In my mind, I didn’t do much. but it’s wonderful to be recognised. My first reaction was shock. It’s not something that has ever happened to us before.”

Mr Scearce, who retired in 2008, has since done a myriad of jobs in the village including looking after the village hall, the church stables and bells. He said the work helps to keep him busy.

He said that there were lots of residents in the village who would be worthwhile recipients of the award.

Mr Scearce describes his wife, 77, as “well deserving”. She is currently in hospital and has recently stepped down from her roles due to a heart condition.

Cllr Donahue said: “I am so pleased that Richard and Susan received this award together.

“I think their partnership represents ideal teamwork, in everything they have and do for the community and its village. People like the Scearces are really the unsung heroes.”

Rev James Leach said Mr and Mrs Scearce exemplified the spirit of humble, behind-the-scenes service and the church is very grateful for their kindness.

He said the coffee mornings are an expression of their love for the community.