Monday, July 13, was a very special day for Mawgan as both the family who run Mawgan Stores and an individual were presented with awards for service to the community by the High Sheriff, Kate Holborow DL.
This year, in addition to the customary awards at the end of her year in office, the High Sheriff is recognising those ‘unsung heroes’ who with small acts of everyday kindness, dedication and selflessness are playing such a crucial role in our communities.
These people, for various reasons, fall below the radar for the larger scale awards. Hence the additional High Sheriff Unsung Hero Awards. These are of a more informal nature and are presented individually, with a framed certificate, as part of a visit to the recipient.
The afternoon began with Alison Olds, nominated by Wendy Bailey, whose presentation, attended by around 20 people, was at Mawgan Cross, in the middle of the village.
Alison Olds being presented with the High Sheriff of Cornwall Unsung Hero Award by High Sheriff Kate Holborow at Mawgan Cross. Picture: Wendy Bailey
At the beginning of lockdown, after a sleepless night worrying about the vulnerable people that lived locally, she set up a Facebook page to spread information about local help, suppliers doing deliveries and other sources of information.
Also concerned for those without social media and internet Alison compiled a list of help and information which was circulated to parish councils and put up on village notice boards.
The idea was originally for Mawgan, but soon grew to cover the whole of the Lizard area and became the Covid-19 Mutual Aid Lizard Peninsula Group.
Alison has worked tirelessly to keep communication going despite being a busy farmer’s wife.
Then it was a short walk to the shop for the second presentation, to Julie, Shaun and Jago Lock who run Mawgan Stores and were nominated by Jill Morison DL.
High Sheriff Kate Holborow receiving a hamper of produce from Shaun Lock. Picture: Wendy Bailey
Their amazing contribution in keeping the shop open and well stocked with fresh local produce throughout the pandemic has ensured a vital lifeline for all those that live in and around Mawgan.
Jago, furloughed from his main job, set about delivering food to those who were unable to get out.
The whole family have made it very clear that they will go that extra mile to make sure that anyone in need receives the help they require.
The bonus was that the rain held off for both presentations, only starting when the High Sheriff went inside the shop to receive a hamper of Cornish produce.
Read more: Gorsedh announces prestigious medal winners
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here