Mike Pursey
Annabelle Jane
Bob Taylor
Rachel Deadman
John Saunders
Hayley Oliver Town’s unsung heroes honoured By Dennis Fowle
EIGHT of Maidstone’s “unsung heroes” have received awards in front of civic heads at a glittering gala dinner staged by the Jubilee Church at the Great Danes Hotel. CelebrateMaidstone event chairmanNeil Pattison said it was a chance to show any detractors that Maidstone had so much going for it – a valuable legacy which had to be passed to the next generation. It was a “thank you” to many who did so much for the county town. About 200 nominations were received
and the independent judging panel made these selections: Clubs, charities, volunteers: Mike Pursey, now 80, for his charm and care in support of Maidstone Horticultural Society and its treasurer for 25 years. Business: Annabelle Jane, who opened the Confection Perfection shop in King Street in December 2011, and runs an extensive selection of cake baking and decorating courses with about 125 students every week. Her cake club “gives inspiration and confidence”.
Jeffrey Vaughan-Martin and Trevor Phipps
Education: Bob Taylor, retired head teacher of Boughton Monchelsea Primary School. One of his pupils said he made ed- ucation fun – “a huge achievement”. An- other said: “He had time for everyone”. Support staff: Rachel Deadman –“a pioneer to Maidstone job seekers”. Her clients at the Job Centre become “engaged, laughing and, more importantly, believe in themselves”. Performing arts: Jeffrey Vaughan- Martin for his inspiring leadership of Maidstone Choral Union and then Maidstone Singers over many years, with
concerts and foreign tours. “He has inspired so many to excel in music.” Social and healthcare: Hayley Oliver initiated and fought for a nursery to provide quality childcare for staff of Future Schools Trust. “It is well run, super-friendly and children love it.” She has funding for a new garden,Mandarin lessons and tennis coaching. Sport: John Saunders has spent nine years developing high-quality physical education and school sport opportunities across Maidstone. He trains an army of sports leaders in schools. Lifetime achievement: Trevor Phipps for his outstanding work as head of Bower Grove School, catering for children with special needs. He said he accepted the award on behalf of all staff who had contributed so much over 29 years.
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