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We have given a special, individual commendation to Jade Smith of Mytholmroyd, Calderdale, for her work on the restoration and improvement of Mytholmroyd’s Memorial Garden.
Jade tending the flower beds in the memorial gardens.
The award was presented on Saturday 1 December as part of Upper Calder Valley’s annual ‘Valley of Lights’ celebration.
Jean Macdonald, our vice-chairman, said: ‘We introduced this award last year to recognise the good work that goes on all over the country in protecting and improving open spaces for the public to enjoy.
‘The judges saw several good projects around the country. We hadn’t originally planned to make an award to an individual, but the judges were bowled over by Jade’s approach and the effort and enthusiasm she brought to making something happen which has benefited the whole community.
Jade Smith surrounded by children, with Jean Macdonald and Craig Whittaker, MP for Calderdale, at the garden. Photo: Anthony R Hodgins.
‘I’m absolutely delighted that I’ve been able to visit Mytholmroyd, and see the wonderfully-restored memorial garden, and to meet Jade and present her with her award on behalf of the society. She really is an inspiration.’
Jean presented Jade with a framed certificate and an Acer tree to plant in the memorial garden.
From left to right: Jean Macdonald, Ruth Bragg (engineer for the project), Jade with her certificate and Anne Holdsworth (environmental projects manager for Calderdale Council). Photo: Anthony R Hodgins.