STEP forward choir conductor Edna Turner – the first winner in our search for Suffolk's Unsung Heroes.We're looking for the people who work to make life better in our area and they are exactly the qualities outlined by Edna's fans, who are members of the Senior Co-op Choir in Ipswich.

BY NICK RICHARDS

nick.richards@eveningstar.co.uk

STEP forward choir conductor Edna Turner – the first winner in our search for Suffolk's Unsung Heroes.

We're looking for the people who work to make life better in our area and they are exactly the qualities outlined by Edna's fans, who are members of the senior Co-op choir in Ipswich.

Choir sponsors Ipswich & Norwich Co-op, nominated her for the dedication she has shown throughout almost 50 years of playing music for singing and dancing classes.

Edna, of Nacton Road, was presented with a medal by Ipswich mayor, Richard Risebrow, in a surprise visit at a rehearsal of the choir.

Edna, 81, began playing for the Co-op children's dance class at Sidegate Lane in 1954 and later played for the Holywells Ladies Choir.

Over the next four decades, Edna has been in big demand for all sorts of classes and musical events.

Edna said: "I was immensely surprised and delighted to be given the award – it probably won't sink in until I get home."

Proud husband Bill said, "She is like a mother to them all" while her friends pointed out her superb sense of humour and friendly nature.

Mayor Richard Risebrow was delighted with this first award. He said: "This epitomises what I wanted to achieve when I started this scheme. It has given great pleasure to meet not only Edna but to all the people here. It is a fine example of what the Unsung Heroes is all about. I therefore urge others to come forward with names of individuals or groups who deserve this award."

Every month there will be two heroes chosen – Mr Risebrow will pick someone from Ipswich and we'll chose someone from the wider area.

Nominations will be held on file so if the person you nominate this month doesn't win they go forward for consideration in future months.

n Send your nominations to Unsung Heroes Evening Star 30 Lower Brook Street Ipswich IP4 1AN or e mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk