Colin Millard - January
Colin has been the Verger of Holy Trinity Church for 25 years, during that time he has demonstrated the highest levels of commitment and dedication to the church and residents of Coventry. Colin spends much of his days welcoming people from across the world as the public face of the church, finding ways to talk to people whatever language they speak and make them feel safe and comfortable whether they’re there to worship, to visit the beautiful church and its stunning architecture, or simply to find somewhere calm and quiet for a few minutes.
Colin has care and compassion for those in need whether unwell, homeless, hungry, worried or scared. Colin will be there to serve them as best he can, making sure they get the help they need when they most need it. Colin also works to help keep the city safe by working with local statutory services. He is entirely committed to keeping the church and those in it safe by responding to alarms in the middle of the night, looking out for people who are unwell or of concern and making sure that important and relevant information is shared with those who need it. Colin also supports the regular and civic services that take place at Holy Trinity, making sure everything runs like clockwork and that the rhythm of the services run smoothly.
Colin spends a great deal of time ensuring that the church is in great condition inside and out, making sure it’s open and ready for all to enter. The safety of the Church is of utmost importance to Colin, he is always on watch to make sure that the Church is safe during the day for visitors and worshipers, and safe and secure at night. Nothing is too much trouble for Colin, no-one too awkward or difficult to warrant help. Colin is always there, ready to serve. His actions properly reflect his character and he is a worthy recipient of this Coventry Good Citizen Award.
Marilyn Haddon - February
After the loss of her mother 25 years ago Marilyn decided to join Cancer Research UK, working as a volunteer to help other families coping with the effects of the disease. During those 25 years Marilyn became Chair of the Cancer Research Local Committee as well as the lead in Coventry for coordinating, fundraising and promotional work for the Charity. Marilyn organises fundraising events such as Christmas Card Sales, Badge Sales and Supermarket Collections. Marilyn also volunteers her time to recruit and draw together businesses, organisations and members of the public within Coventry to further the fundraising efforts.
Marilyn has spent many hours attending fund-raising events, collecting donations and has shown dedication and commitment to the cause by attending presentations, giving speeches of thanks, writing thank you notes and visiting organisations and schools, all as a volunteer. To date, Marilyn has raised an estimated two million pounds for Cancer Research.
It is evident that through Marilyn’s work she has shown tremendous commitment to the people of Coventry who are affected by cancer, generously giving of her time, efforts and resources to help better their lives. Her actions properly reflect her character and she is a worthy recipient of this Coventry Good Citizen Award.