As her Mayoral year came to a close, the Mayor of Waverley Cllr Mary Foryszewski paid tribute to the fantastic volunteers across the community, who dedicate so much time and energy to helping others.

During the Annual Council Meeting which was live-streamed on Youtube, Cllr Foryszewski awarded certificates of appreciation in recognition of the courage, strength, determination and goodwill for efforts made before and during the pandemic.

Cllr Foryszewski praised the amazing, incredible people doing incredible things.

Those who were highlighted for their contributions and commitment to their community included:

Andrea Bamford from Cranleigh in Bloom, and instigator of Cranleigh Rocks. Mary hailed Andrea as the heart of the Cranleigh Community.

Glebelands School, whose staff and students made PPE equipment during the pandemic.

Cranleigh Rotary Club were also awarded a Community Champion certificate for their charitable work.

Rod Wealde from the Royal British Legion whose hard work acknowledges heroes from times gone by.

Nabel Nasir from the Ahmadryya Muslim Community, a peaceful and loving community in Tilford in the heart of the borough.

Hayley Roberts who set up the Secret Garden Sanctuary earlier this year.

Henry Ascoli, an inspirational young member of the Waverley Borough Council team.

Jessica Wickes for her work supporting people with their mental health.

Wendy Gibson, a Street Champion, whose name was mentioned time and time again when Cllr Foryszewski asked for nominations for Community Champions on social media.

Janet Wallis from Cranleigh Baptist Church. Cllr Foryszewski pointed out how Janet had been sorely missed during the pandemic by those she would usually be supporting.

SMART Cranleigh, a community network that supports and enables local initiatives in and around Cranleigh.

The final Community Champion Certificated was awarded to the Cranleigh Lions for their tireless fundraising efforts.

Throughout her time as Mayor, Cllr Foryszewski’s chosen charity was Mane Chance Sanctuary, which rescues and rehabilitates abused, abandoned and old horses.

She also worked with various local charities and organisations to raise awareness of male mental health and suicide.