THERE were rounds of applause and one waggy tail during an award ceremony for two Earley residents; one recognised for her community work in the town, the other for his role providing emotional support for people living with dementia.
At the Mayor’s Reception, both Liz Kerry and therapy dog Fraser were presented with Service to Earley Awards 2024 by Earley Mayor, Councillor Mike Smith.
Liz Kerry was recognised for her various work around Earley, including encouraging bee streets, community gardening at St Nicolas Church and helping with the memory café.
In 2024, Liz was also responsible for coordinating the Earley One Square at a Time 2024 community artwork.
She said: “It’s wonderful to be given the Service to Earley Award and honoured by Earley Town Council for the various groups and activities I take part in in the area.
“I was responsible for originating this 100-piece patchwork quilt art installation, but the whole was created by many individuals who wanted to tell their own story about being part of Earley.
“It was produced by people who didn’t know each other, but by accident found they were neighbours both in reality, and on the patchwork.
“The quilt is a visual description of the nature of community with surprising connections between the stories and many layers of meanings.
“In accepting this award I want to thank all those who joined in and did so much work.”
The quilt was on display during the Mayor’s Reception and can now be seen in the Community Centre in St Nicolas.
This year, in a first for the Town Council, a Special Recognition Award was also presented to Fraser, a Pets as Therapy dog, for the important work he carries out visiting residents at Austen House Care Home.
Fraser’s weekly visits provide companionship, comfort, emotional support and sensory stimulation for residents, especially those living with dementia.
He was nominated by Sarah, the daughter of a former resident of Austen House, who said: “Fraser is an unsung hero and I feel so strongly that the support he gave to Dad, and continues to give to all, should be recognised.”
David Hare, Fraser’s human, delivered a humorous speech on Fraser’s behalf, stating that despite Fraser’s initial disappointment that he was not in fact receiving a knighthood, nor becoming a Freeman of Earley, Fraser was honoured to accept the award on behalf of all Pet Therapy dogs who give pleasure and support to so many.
He continued: “I hope it’s true for all my colleagues that we do this because we enjoy it.
“I enjoy people making a fuss of me, the treats Daddy brings, the biscuits and other morsels that sometimes come my way, but most of all I just enjoy making people happy – if I can lift people’s spirits, then that is wonderful.”
Annual Service to Earley Awards are given by the Town Council to honour individuals who have made a significant and long-standing voluntary contribution to Earley.
For information, visit: earley-tc.gov.uk
