THREE local residents have been rewarded for their dedicated work towards the local community.

Chollerton Parish Council began recognising the hard work and community contributions of local residents two years ago. And this year, the council has awarded the special accolade to three people.

Michelle Nixon has been one of the main drivers in updating and increasing the usage of Barrasford Village Hall, and chairman of Chollerton Parish Council, Edward Heslop, praised her vital work.

He said: “As treasurer and bookings secretary she has done many of the vital tasks that have made the hall an option for different, local organisations to use.

“She has also played an equally valuable part for the football club organising fund-raisers and vital help in running the club.”

Former chairman of governors at Chollerton First School, Jim Bullock was rewarded after contributing more than 40 years of voluntary work including arranging social events in Gunnerton, serving as a church warden, and also as a member of the village hall committee.

Coun. Heslop said: “He was a driving force in the publication of a book and an exhibition of our local history.

“Possibly his most important contribution was as a Chollerton school governor, where he spent 34 years as chairman before retiring in 2008.”

Finally, Coun. Jen Dover, who has been a councillor for 20 years, including 11 as chairwoman, has been rewarded for her dedicated work towards the parish.

Coun. Heslop added: “Her knowledge of especially, but not solely, Gunnerton has meant that various organisations were well informed and in a position to act appropriately. For many years she ran the rangers – guiding young people with practical projects such as bridge and footpath maintenance.”