'A celebration of Abbots Langley' at Civic Reception

6.44.00pm GMT Sun 4th Mar 2007

Local people and voluntary organisations were recognised and rewarded at this year's Abbots Langley Parish Council's Chairman's Reception. Billed as 'A Celebration of Abbots Langley', council Chairman Cllr Sara Bedford, used the event as an opportunity to recognise the people who make the community such a great place to live.

During her speech Sara praised those who took part in community activities, especially those who volunteered to organise or lead groups. She said, "Tonight, I would like to propose a toast to the community of the civil parish of Abbots Langley, from Hunton Bridge to Nash Mills, from Bucknalls Lane to Bedmond and everywhere around. To its people, its organisations and most of all the sense of community that makes it such a special place to be".

The evening also saw the inaugural presentation of the Parish Council's civic awards. Marcus Coultrup was recognised for his contribution to many voluntary groups, including the Sunday lunch club, Meals on Wheels and Abbeyfield. Abbots Evergreens were awarded the shield for local group, after almost 20 years of running a club for active pensioners. Julia Nash was recognised for her campaign to get the medical help needed for her husband Pete.

The evening concluded with entertainment from the Parmiter's School Big Band, under the leadership of Mr Stuart Bates.

Proceeds of over £300 from the raffle will be sent to Keech Cottage Children's Hospice.

You can find out more about Pete Nash at www.petesfund.co.uk and about Keech Cottage at www.pasque.org.