Paul Golder writes for the Brentwood Gazette
We’ve been involved with the recent Monarch For A Day award, set up by Bennetts Funeral Directors in Brentwood and Billericay as part of their celebrations for the Platinum Jubilee.
The idea of the award is to recognise unsung heroes in our community who would be treated to a special day in honour of the work that they do all year round.
Our very own Steve Roach was one of the three judges, along with former Brentwood Mayor Sheila Murphy and Bennetts’ Managing Director Jane Bennett.
The judges spent a great deal of time deliberating over the most worthy nominees and those shortlisted to find our eventual winner – Kim Wilson and Nicki Roessler who between them run ‘Help me Home Brentwood and Billericay’, a local volunteer group which helps with found, missing or stray dogs. They use thermal imaging cameras, night vision equipment, microchip scanners and drones to help locate missing dogs.
Kim and Nicki were collected in a classic Rolls Royce Phantom V limousine and enjoyed a champagne lunch, pampering sessions, a visit to Brentwood Theatre, a rare trip to the St Thomas bell tower and lots more.
Runners up included Penelope Tyzack and Jaye Kane. Penelope is an accomplished artist who regularly sells her artwork to raise money for charities as well as displaying in this year’s Brentwood Borough Council Art Trail, and Jaye is a massive support in her local community, helping and supporting all and sundry, both two and four legged.
Recognition for the great work that people do can come in many shapes and forms, and this is definitely a fun way to reward people. We’re hoping to help get involved with future events.
