People from all walks of life united (From Swindon Advertiser)

People from all walks of life united

7:00am Friday 15th May 2009

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THEY come from all walks of life but as they entered the County Ground – they had one thing in common – pride.

Forty seven people stood up and were counted at the Pride of Swindon Awards yesterday at Swindon Town’s Football Ground.

Normally used to devoting their attention towards others behind the scenes, they were in the spotlight for once.

They are the faces and hands behind lunch clubs, cancer care, fundraising, brave acts, preserving the town’s heritage and more.

Colleagues and friends nominated them all after seeing the extra hours and efforts they put in.

Swindon mayor Steve Wakefield said: “To see so many people packed into the County Ground for this event makes me extremely proud of the town’s community.

“People have responded well and I am grateful for that.”

Twenty four people received a round of applause and a certificate while a further 23 also received a simple badge with the image of Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Chief Superinten-dent Paul Howlett, who presented the awards, said: “What a fantastic week for Swindon – last weekend the Radio 1 Big Weekend showed us what we are capable of as a town. Today’s event demonstrates the fantastic people who live and work in this town.”

The awards were launched in conjunction with the Adver and the mayor in January to celebrate the dedication of individuals.

Yesterday’s celebration was hosted by Swindon 105.5’s Shirley Ludford.

Adver editor Dave King interviewed all badge winners.

He said: “Today is about highlighting inspirational people who make this town work.

“It is a proud day and some of the stories these people have to tell are amazing.”

Rebecca McIntosh, 75, has been cooking hearty food for more than two decades for the Age Concern Caribbean Luncheon Club, now known as the United Communities Luncheon club.

She said: “There was nowhere for the old folk to go.

“I enjoy doing what I do for the old folks and when I stop working there will be somewhere for me to go.”

Railway Village resident Martha Parry was very surprised to be recognised for her tireless campaigning to save the Mechanics’ Institute.

She said: “The Mechanics’ is my passion and it is an issue about local democracy.

“It is the heart of Swindon.”

Kevan Colanis, who is described as one of the most important and influential people in Penhill, has set up a radio slot about the estate and got young people involved in radio.

The Les Gowing House warden said: “I am absolutely thrilled to find out I was nominated a few weeks ago.”

Legal and General and Zurich community trust donated a combined £5,000 towards Swindon charities.

The Penhill lunch club is receiving £500, the Broadgreen breakfast club gets £1,000, the Rowdy Bunch will receive £1,500 and Swindon Stroke Support Group £2,000.

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