A council worker who has devoted much of his time over the past decade to keeping the streets of Cromer clean is among the unsung heroes being honoured by the town at an awards ceremony this month.
Ernest Lawrence, who is employed by North Norfolk District Council's waste contractors Keir, has been described as 'a real asset' to the seaside town which has won plaudits for its cleanliness.
His efforts are being recognised at Cromer Town Council's annual awards in the Parish Hall on Wednesday, March 16, at 7pm.
The awards, which will be presented by Cromer mayor Tim Adams, seek to reward the work done in the community by individuals and groups which enhances the quality of life of the town and its residents, much of which goes unrecognised.
Other local heroes being honoured at the awards include Cromer boxer Ryan Walsh who created boxing history last year when he won the British featherweight title at Wembley. He joined twin brother Liam, holder of the British super-featherweight crown, at the top of his game – making them the first set of twins to hold British titles at the same time.
Former North Norfolk News editor Richard Batson is being commended for his 23 years of reporting on events in Cromer. His nomination states that his stories were always of the highest quality, accuracy and fairness, and kept the community informed.
Volunteers Margaret Barker and Jean Steward have been recognised for their efforts running the Tuesday Club, a weekly club for adults with learning difficulties.
Cromer Academy caretaker Les Sadler is also being recognised for his 25 years in the job along with retiring learning and community resource centre manager Geoff Leversedge following a decade-long managerial role at Merchant's Place in Cromer.
Andy Boyce is also set to receive a Mayor's Commendation in recognition of his work with Cromer Preservation Society.
Timothy Bartlett, Cromer's deputy mayor, said: 'It is a bit like the Queen's Honours List, it recognises a great range of unsung heroes for their contribution to the community.
'The council is keen to make itself very much part of the Cromer community, we are without exception local people and we are very much involved in the day to day life of Cromer itself.'
And he added: 'The awards help make people feel like the work they do is appreciated.'
Local residents are invited to attend next week's ceremony and raise any questions concerning the town.
Guest speakers include Adrian Brittain, commercial director of the Westerleigh Group, who will talk about how plans are progressing for the new crematorium in Cromer and District Councillor Andreas Yiasimi who will give a presentation on the town's Twinning Association.
The mayor will also present cheques to a wide range of organisations from money raised through public donations at the New Year's Day fireworks display.
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