High Sheriff of Warwickshire recognises Southam’s community spirit

Volunteers in Southam have been praised for their role in helping others during the Covid pandemic.

In an online ceremony earlier this month the High Sheriff of Warwickshire, Joe Greenwell CBE DL, presented his Team Award to Southam Community Spirit 2020 as part of a special Town Council meeting.

The Community Spirit group mobilised quickly at the start of the pandemic, bringing practical help to the community - especially those forced to shield and unable to go out.

Volunteers organised prescription drop-offs, shopping trips, dog walking an even gardening for those that needed it, mainly via Facebook but also with a telephone helpline for people without a computer or smartphone.

High Sheriff Greenwell said: “I am delighted to present a High Sheriff Award to all those involved in the ‘South Community Spirit 2020 Group’.

"The award is reserved for individuals and groups who have made an outstanding contribution to their local communities.

“The Southam group of volunteers richly deserve the recognition for their speed of response to the challenges posed by the pandemic and lockdown and the positive impact they have had on the residents of Southam in general, and on the elderly and vulnerable in particular.

"The group is well named, it epitomises community spirit and I congratulate all the volunteers and their leaders."

Commenting afterwards, Rebecca Bourton, one of the members of the Community Spirit group, said: “It was really heart warming to hear the town council and the High Sheriff's appreciation for our efforts.

"I feel so honoured to be part of a wonderful team of people who I am now delighted to call my friends.

"We are proud to be part of the Southam community who so readily offered their help and support.

"We are really grateful to the Mayor for his nomination and to the High Sheriff for his kind words."