TWO LOCAL heroes were presented with their Town Council Civic Awards this week.
Wendy and Nigel Preston were unable to receive their honours in person at the town council’s official ceremony, so Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Lou Timlin instead visited them at The WELL,where the couple has served for three years.
After presenting them with their awards, she learnt about The Wokingham community they founded in 2022, which meets at Kings Church.
A spokesperson for Kings Church said: “It’s a great encouragement to the whole team, and we are delighted that Wendy and Nigel have been recognised for their continuous devotion to serving the community over the years.
“The mayor took time to understand the heart and vision behind The WELL, spoke with volunteers and visitors, and listened to their stories first hand.
“She also visited Crafting Smile, a crochet group set up by the Hong Kong community, and brought into The WELL last year.”
Nigel and Wendy were nominated for their Civic Awards (an honour for exceptional, voluntary contribution to the local community) having given more than 25 years of voluntary service including, for the past three years, at The Well community group.
Its welcoming, inclusive space offers food, companionship and practical support every week for at least 50 families, or more than 100 individuals.
It also provides a weekly lunch for around 60 to 80 people.
Using fresh produce donated by SHARE Wokingham, Tesco and Lidl Wokingham, and Sainsbury’s and Co-op Arborfield, visitors can enjoy preparing food and socialising together, before sitting down to a group lunch.
The initiative has evolved into a vital community support system that helps families and individuals with food support weekly.
As well as addressing food insecurity, it is also said to be fostering connection across diverse communities.
Nigel and Wendy’s nominators for the award say they are known for their warmth, reliability and generosity, and that they model humility, teamwork and sustained community leadership.
“We’re overwhelmed by the award,” said Wendy.
“We feel we haven’t actually done that much, and that it’s thanks to our huge and committed team, willing to do what’s needed week by week, that makes The WELL happen.
“It’s a brilliant experience: even after three and a half years, we never feel it’s a chore to collect the food, and we really look forward to each Wednesday.
“The team is outstanding; always going the extra mile, able to think outside the box, and always looking for ways to expand what we do.
“We never know what food there will be for the group, and it’s always a leap of faith, knowing that at least 60 people will need lunch.
“But God has never let us down yet.”
Wendy and Nigel’s initiative has transformed lives, particularly for marginalised and isolated residents.
“Week by week we love watching people build relationships and grow in confidence,” said Wendy.
“One person recently told me he feels The WELL is what family should look like – he said he had never been somewhere like it before.
“This is a safe place where you can have a hug as you walk through the door, if you need it.
The group meets every Wednesday at Kings Church, Wokingham, from 11am until 3pm.
All are welcome.
For information, visit: kingschurch.org.uk and wokingham-tc.gov.uk
