CHADWELL St Mary Community Forum has been nationally recognised with a prestigious ‘Queens Award’.
The award was created by Her Majesty to mark her Golden Jubilee in 2002 and it recognises outstanding contributions made to local communities by groups of volunteers.
The award has the equivalent status to a single MBE.
The forum was one of four groups recognised from across Essex and was chosen based on a number of categories, including its direct involvement in making a difference in the lives of others.
Formed in 2002, the group wanted to help residents communicate with Thurrock Council and other public bodies, raise funds, help each other and address local issues.
A core group of 16 supports the group regularly but that nearly doubles if needed with 12 more volunteers assisting the group on big issues.
Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Cathy Kent is pleased the group is receiving national recognition.
“The commitment and passion the forum has demonstrated in Chadwell St Mary is brilliant.
“They meet regularly and they are all doers. They get and up and go and really make a difference.
She added: “They absolutely deserve this award and I hope the good work continues!”
Lord Petre, Lord Lieutenant for the County of Essex said: “Their work has allowed a ‘village atmosphere’ to be retained in a growing urban environment.
“The commitment and the passion of the Forum has made Chadwell St Mary a vibrant and safer community and a more pleasant place in which to live.”
To find out more about your local forum, visit thurrock.gov.uk/community-forum.
For details of the award winners and information on how to nominate a local group, visit www.direct.gov.uk/qavs
Nominations for 2017 are now being accepted. The closing date is 30th September 2016.
