A self employed artist from Falmouth has been presented with a newly designed Churchill medallion after completing a travelling fellowship with the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust.

Laura Menzies was presented with the blue and silver medallion by its designer and guest of honour at the presentation ceremony, Professor Brian Clarke, who is a world renowned architectural artist, and a 1974 Churchill fellow.

As part of her fellowship, Laura travelled to North America to investigate the value of creative engagement for older people with a view to expand her understanding of this area so she can develop tools and resources for projects here in the UK.

rofessor Clarke presented 129 fellows with their medallions at a ceremony in Church House in London, which Winston Churchill himself requisitioned as a makeshift Houses of Parliament after the originals had been damaged by bombing during the blitz. 

Laura said: “The travelling fellowships provide opportunities for UK citizens to go abroad on a worthwhile project of their own choosing, with the aim of enriching their lives through their global experiences – and to bring back the benefit to others in their UK profession or community through sharing the results of their new knowledge.”

Professor Clarke praised all the fellows for their outstanding achievements, and said: “I know from personal experience that the fellowship represents a wonderful opportunity. I am continually amazed and inspired by the Churchill fellows dedication and commitment to making a difference in so many areas affecting today’s society.”