A PAINTING by talented Studley artist Anneka Smith was presented to long serving local resident Hazel Wright by Studley Parish Council as it said farewell to the much loved former councillor.
Hazel, who served the village at both district and parish level for many years as a popular Liberal Democrat councillor, is moving close to Hull to be nearer her son.
“Hazel will be much missed,” said Coun Colin Summer, chair of the parish council.
“Over the years she has always stayed true to her word and helped so many people.
“I remember attending a meeting at Stratford with her and I was amazed at the number of people who made a point of coming over and greeting her.
“It showed the profound esteem she was held in.”
Hazel served as a councillor for more than 30 years and among many achievements was instrumental in the building of Studley village hall, together with Paul Beaman and Dennis Charlton.
She also led the way on building social housing in Studley and was behind the ‘Needles’ monument at the A435 Barley Mow island as a tribute to the village’s role in the needle industry.
Typically modest, she said: “It was a nice surprise from the parish council.
“I feel I have been lucky – I have made a lot of friends here and there’s not been too many doors slammed in my face when I’ve been out campaigning.
“Yes, I will miss the people.”
Hazel also served for more than 30 years on the village hall committee and thanked its members for their gift of an engraved glass.
Anneka’s picture is a pen and ink view of Studley with Hazel’s house at the centre.
