THE Studley Parish Council awards evening has been hailed as the best ever after a glittering night celebrated the great and good of the village while also raising more than £2,000 for the Shakespeare Hospice.
The event was presided over by parish chairman Councillor Paul Beaman who was full of praise not only for the winners and runners up but also for Studley itself.
“Too often others are quick to criticise and complain about where we live, however if they were to actually stop and look around they would realise how lucky we are to live in such a vibrant, active community, located in a beautiful part of the country,” he said.
He praised all the winners but admitted the highlight for him had been presenting the Silver Jubilee Award to the music stalwart Alma Bright Clarke who, on the cusp of her 90th birthday, still plays an active role in Redditch Choral Society which she founded in 1964.
“Alma Bright Clarke has done so much good for so many people it was an absolute honour to present her with the award,” said Coun Beaman.
“It was a wonderful evening, and according to the feedback we’ve received, the best parish awards night yet.”
Other winners included Alan Cale who won the cup for best overall allotment plot, Mr & Mrs G McKenzie for the best garden frontage, and Flair with Flowers for best commercial business, while the talented Billy Vale won the Youth Shield.
The Millennium Shield was won by the Friends of Studley Nature Reserve while Studley in Bloom was presented with a Special Award for the massive impact they’ve had in improving the village.
