Three community servants honoured at Market Drayton ceremony

Arthur Barnett, Jim Moore and Robert Holland were inducted on Thursday night as new honorary townsmen.

The three all received medals and certificates for their varied achievements, and their names will join those of all the other honorary townsmen on a board at the town hall.

Mayor Roger Smith introduced each recipient before they received their awards.

He said: "Mr Barnett was the caller of the ceilidh band the Tern Valley Tinkers since the band was established in 2012, and the leader of the Market Drayton University of the Third Age country dancing group.

"He contributed to the life of the [St Luke's] Church in Hodnet and then Christ Church in Little Drayton."

On receiving his award Mr Barnett, 85, said: "I am overwhelmed. I never expected it in the whole of my life.

"I have been pretty lucky during my life and I would like to thank all the people for arranging this, and also thank the people who put me forward.

"I am very grateful for this, I really don't think I deserve it because I have just enjoyed life.

"I have always believed that the more you put into something, the more you get out of it."

He also took time to specially thank his wife of 65 years, Lily, who came with him to receive his award.

Jim Moore has been the chief organiser of Market Drayton's Poppy Appeal since 2010. The appeal is well-supported in Market Drayton and raises tens of thousands for military causes every year.

The mayor thanked him for all his work in coordinating fundraising, distributing collection tins and organising wreath-laying.

Mr Moore, 77, said: "When I had the letter through I had to read it twice. Did they mean me? Is there another Jim Moore?

"It's stunning really. I don't come from market Drayton, I never thought I would get anything like this.

"Thank you for all the support."

Robert 'Bob' Holland was chair of the Market Drayton Allotment Association for many years until he stepped down in late 2019 because his mobility has suffered.

The mayor said the whole town appreciated his efforts which ensured the allotments were kept at a high standard.

Mr Holland, 79, said: "I have got to thank the proposers who put me on the spot.

"I want to say a big thank you to [town clerk] Julie Jones because while I was the chairman we had a good working relationship.

"I could come and ask a question at the drop of a hat. I thoroughly enjoyed being the chair."

All of the recipients enjoyed tea and juice with town councillors after the ceremony. Cake was also provided by Gill's Puddings.