Area Panel Awards

Story: Caroline Harris.

Photos: Anwar Suliman.

The Burngreave Area Panel Awards on Friday 23rd January was an uplifting occasion, with many local dignitaries attending, including our own Jackie Drayton and Steve Jones.

Also in attendance were the Lord Mayor Jane Bird, Richard Caborn and David Blunkett who gave us a wonderful rendition of ‘the Wheels on the Bus go round and round’ in appreciation of the Walking Bus, who claimed the first award. These volunteers have kept this service going and deservedly received their awards. They were joined on stage by the Wardens, who have supported the project, and were awarded for all their work in the community.

Firshill Tenants and Residents Association had a special mention, with many local people freely giving their time and energy to this excellent project which benefits the community. Julia Pidd, Sheila Habershaw, Pauline West received individual awards for their long standing contribution to the TARA.

Friends of Pitsmoor Adventure Playground received awards for their voluntary work supporting the playground. This is an essential service which provides a safe area for all youngsters to safely play and gather together. Naveed Hussain also received an individual award for his commitment and ability as a playworker at the Adventure Playground.

Richard Caborn gave his ‘Farewell to Burngreave’ speech as he hands over to David Blunkett. Following the award of Isilda Lang , recognised for her work with children and the Chilean community over many years, Caborn gave special mention to the Chilean refugees who have received support from Sheffield when they were displaced by the Pinochet Regime.

Individuals from the Messenger, Sage Greenfingers, Pitsmoor Credit Union, the Health Service and those who deserve credit for their outstanding work with Young People all received full recognition for their hard work. A full list of winners can be found on the Messenger website.

Perhaps special mention should be made to John Turner who inadvertently trod on the paw of David Blunkett’s dog eliciting this response from David… “Don’t worry, Tony Blair did that once!”

Thanks were given to all the staff, caterers and florists who worked behind the scenes to make this a memorable event for Burngreave. This was the last Area Panel Awards as later this year it will become part of a new Area Assembly. Area Coordinator Andy Shallice, received a cheer for his award, job changes mean an uncertain future but Andy said “I will remember the last four years for the rest of my life.”