Fantastic contributions to the community rewarded at Malmesbury Citizen of the Year awards

It was Sue Cleaver, a lollipop lady at Malmesbury Primary School, who won the Citizen of the Year Award, for 21 years of escorting children across the road rain or shine.

Mrs Cleaver is known in the town for her amazing Christmas lights, which have raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years.

She said: “I thank all the people that took the time to nominate me. It is really, really great, I am so pleased.

“I do get on with the younger generations. I just think I get such a reward out of it and they keep me young,”

The Young Citizen of the Year award, The John Poole Cup, made in conjunction with the Rotary Club of the South Cotswolds went to Malmesbury School A Level student, Kaitlin Ford.

Kaitlin, who celebrated her 18th birthday on Monday,was given the award for working with youngsters at Malmesbury School with special educational needs and volunteering to help dance classes at Malmesbury Primary School.

“It is a perfect birthday present,” she said, “It is nice to be appreciated by others and especially for the work I have put in. It is a big achievement . I am just surprised that I got nominated.”

Kaitlin, who is studying A Levels at Malmesbury School, said has hope to become a teacher.

Kaitlin’s head teacher Tim Gilson was full of praise.

He said: “I have seen the impact that Kaitlin has had on younger students and on the whole school community. She is an excellent role model and has shown herself to be both caring and supportive.

“We are all very proud of her and grateful for what she has done.”

Group of the year award went to Malmesbury Kite Group, for organising a free International Kite Festival in the town .

Runners up included Ash Langley for his work helping youngsters at Malmesbury Victoria Football Club and Sheena McBayne who looks after residents at Glover’s court residential home , tending to gardens at the home, and entering them in the Malmesbury In Bloom competition every year.