Parishioner of the Year winners

From Peter Tinson, chairman of Aston Rowant Parish Council

The Covid-19 pandemic has made the past year particularly challenging for many. During such difficult times there are always individuals who start new initiatives or whose work becomes more visible as a result of the changing circumstances. The parish council instigated a new Parishioner of the Year award to recognise those who have gone above and beyond in contributing to the community and invited nominations for the award for both over 18s and those aged 18 and under.

I am pleased to announce that the winners of the inaugural Parishioner of the Year Awards are Karen Clark and Scarlett Lee – our congratulations to both.

A year ago, during the first lockdown, Karen set up the Lockdown Larder to provide milk, cream, flour and eggs – ingredients which were proving difficult to find in the local supermarkets. Since then, the shop has grown to provide a wide range of goods to the community and has evolved into a social hub for the parish.

The lockdown saw more people making use of the many footpaths we have across the parish. Fiveways Corner was a regular destination for many and a small team have been working to ensure that it looks its best for us. Scarlett played her part in this work, clearing the stream of weeds and other debris. Her work is recognised as the recipient of the under-18s award.

It is important to recognise the other nominees for the award; each has made their own contribution to the community which has been recognised by their fellow parishioners through their nomination. Thanks and congratulations go to Mike Eaton, Lynda Sowerby, Cate Andreopoulous and Tony Hughes.