May Fayre and Canal Festival stalwarts honoured

A key organiser of Leighton's May Fayre and a local conservationist who has supported Linslade Canal Festival since its inception, have both been honoured for their community work.
Dave Edwards, left, and Malcolm Chaney with mayor Steve CotterDave Edwards, left, and Malcolm Chaney with mayor Steve Cotter
Dave Edwards, left, and Malcolm Chaney with mayor Steve Cotter

On Wednesday, the prestigious Honorary Burgess of Leighton-Linslade award for 2017 was presented to Dave Edwards and to Malcolm Chaney.

In recognition of their many years of voluntary service to benefit residents of the town, the duo received an engraved enamelled broach and a certificate, presented by Town Mayor Councillor Steve Cotter.

Mr Edwards was nominated by the Rotary Club of Leighton-Linslade in recognition of his leading role in organising the annual May Day Fayre for over 25 years.

From small beginnings, the fayre has evolved into a hugely successful community event enjoyed each year by thousands of residents, which generates income for numerous local charities.

Mr Edwards has also been instrumental in helping to organise other diverse events including the Santa float and the celebrations for the 90th birthday of The Queen.

The council says that, in addition, Mr Edwards is recognised as a passionate supporter of the town and someone who has worked and campaigned tirelessly to make it a better place in which to live and work.

Mr Chaney was nominated in recognition of his many years of voluntary service in the field of conservation, particularly in respect of the Grand Union Canal and the Linslade Wood.

A key member of the Friends of Linslade Wood, Mr Chaney has been involved in a number of activities and initiatives, from strimming to scrub clearing to the installation of benches and has been a Volunteer Warden for the Greensand Trust since 2009.

Having volunteered to assist the town council with the organisation of the first Linslade Canal Festival in 2002, Mr Chaney has continued to be involved ever since and has been invaluable in assisting with the preparation of the canal for the event and the liaison with the boating community.

A passionate boater, Mr Chaney set up a Boat Watch scheme in 2005 – one of the many Watch schemes run by local volunteers in conjunction with the local police, including Home Watch and Street Watch.

The ‘Title of Dignity’ is a prestigious award reserved for the truly deserving. If you know of a deserving candidate, the town council will be inviting nominations for 2018 from June until October.

A nomination form will be available to download from June onwards at www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk

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