At last week's Annual Town Assembly, Certificates of Outstanding Community Service were presented to three very worthy Ringwood residents to acknowledge their valuable and devoted service over very many years to the people of the town.

Citations on the certificates read as follows:

Peter Crutcher – We, Ringwood Town Council, desire to acknowledge the valuable and devoted service rendered by you to the people of Ringwood over very many years. You served the people of the town for over forty years as a member of Ringwood Town Council, being the Chairman twice, on the New Forest District Council and as the long-term Chairman of Ringwood United Charities; these being your civic activities. In addition, you were a prominent local businessman best known recently for supporting local events through the provision of public announcement facilities. We loudly applaud your valuable and sterling service whilst thanking you most sincerely.

Phil Doughty - We, Ringwood Town Council, desire to acknowledge the valuable and devoted service rendered by you to the people of Ringwood over very many years. Your service as standard bearer at Remembrance and other events is greatly appreciated. We loudly applaud your valuable and sterling service whilst thanking you most sincerely.

Rev Terry Roberts - We, Ringwood Town Council, desire to acknowledge the valuable and devoted service rendered by you to the people of Ringwood over very many years. Your exceptional contribution to Remembrance and honouring the fallen of the parish is of particular note, having brought credit upon you and the town. It is greatly and especially appreciated. We loudly applaud your valuable and sterling service whilst thanking you most sincerely.

The Town Mayor, Cllr Tony Ring, who was unable to present the Certificates in person, said:

“Having played a part in this Council Merit Award initiative I am very sorry to miss this auspicious occasion when we honour three very worthy Ringwood residents for their contributions to our community over many past years.

Peter Crutcher through his various business interests and personal commitment has supported many town functions and charitable events for more decades than many of us can remember.

Terry Roberts, always supported by Phil Doughty, has for many years carried out much, much work in organising successive remembrance and commemorative functions for our town. The much praised and frequently noted Gateway Memorial lantern has quickly become a focal point and is testament to a legacy for past, present and future generations.

I am therefore very pleased to tell Peter, Terry and Phil that their efforts are truly appreciated and congratulate each of them on the award of a Certificate of Merit on behalf of the Council and the community at large.”