WHETHER co-ordinating community websites, offering life-saving emergency care, or coaching rugby to youngsters, this year’s Distinguished Citizens have all made Bromyard proud.

Their names were announced at Bromyard Town Council’s annual meeting on Monday (April 27) by mayor Jonathan Lester.

Speaking afterwards he said: “It’s a difficult choice but all of these six individuals have provided a lot of support for the community over the years, in various volunteer organisations.

“Where we lack the size of other communities, we are blessed with a great resource of volunteers.”

Those who will be receiving awards this year are editor of the Bromyard Info website Jane Merry, Gala Festival and Off the Record mainstay Denis Teale, retained fireman and community first responder Simon Halling, Graham Perkins for his work with Twinning Association, Community Resource Centre and Bromyard Info, Farmer Parker, for his work with youth at Bromyard Rugby Club and Bob Dallow, for his work with the Gala and other organisations.

Jane Merry, a well-known community lynchpin through her work with Off the Record magazine, the Bromyard Info website, and the town’s local history society, said: “I was absolutely knocked sideways because I could not believe it. “It’s really quite an honour. I don’t know who nominated me, but I’m really grateful to them.”

Farmer Parker, who formed the first committee for the youth section of Bromyard RFC in the 2002/03 season, was equally happy to have been put forward for the award.

“I’m honoured, I suppose,” he said. “We have about 200 kids signed up which isn’t bad for a small town.”

The six recipients will receive their awards at a special event to be held in September.