NOMINATIONS are being sought for special awards for the people who have given outstanding service to the community in Felixstowe.The town council is seeking suggestions for both the Mayor's Awards and also the HMS Ganges Youth Trophy.

By Richard Cornwell

NOMINATIONS are being sought for special awards for the people who have given outstanding service to the community in Felixstowe.

The town council is seeking suggestions for both the Mayor's Awards and also the HMS Ganges Youth Trophy.

The Mayor's Awards were given out for the first time last year after the scheme was set up by the then mayor Harry Dangerfield.

Current mayor Malcolm Minns said: "Last year's introduction of these awards proved very popular and five most worthy recipients were honoured.

"Once again, I am inviting nominations from among those many volunteers who make, or who have made, major voluntary contributions to benefit the lives of other members of the community or related good causes."

It is planned to again reward five people and these can be nominated by organisations or individuals.

Last year Keith Flower, Charles Taylor, Phyllis Carter, Barry Slade and Barbara Reid were the first to receive the new lapel badges.

Mr Flower received his award to mark his service to the town's award-winning Sea Cadet unit, of which he has been the commanding officer for the past seven years, while Mr Taylor was chairman of the Felixstowe East Suffolk Travellers' Association for many years and is now honorary life president.

Phyllis Carter's community work included meals on wheels, prison visiting, and working at the Old People's Welfare Association, Mr Slade's work included 26 years with St John Ambulance, and Miss Reid has been chairman of the conservation group The Felixstowe Society for many years.

Nominations must be with the town clerk Susan Robinson, who has full details and nomination forms, by March 10.

The HMS Ganges Award is given each year to mark the service of young people in the community and last year was won by Felixstowe St John Ambulance cadets for their work with the St Felix Home for the Blind.

Nominations should be made in writing to Mrs Robinson at the Town Hall, Undercliff Road West, Felixstowe, IP11 2AG.

WEBLINK: www.felixstowe.gov.uk