Parishioner of the Year

Each year the Parish Council invites nominations for Parishioner of the Year. This a someone (or sometimes a couple) from within the parish who has devoted much time and energy working for the community.

Eric and Sheila Dunford 2008	Their founding of the Marcham Society and their immense contribution to its functioning in so many ways, including the holding of offices, organising meetings and undertaking research have provided parishioners with knowledge, pleasure and joy. Their contribution to the life to All Saints’ Church, in particular to its music, through membership of the choir and through the playing of the organ, is warmly and deeply appreciated by the congregation and adds greatly to the prevailing welcoming atmosphere. Their selfless commitment and their informed and enthusiastic efforts have been pre-eminent in the establishment of the Jubilee walks in Marcham, whilst their many other contributions to the life of the village, including leading walks, running the village ‘Café’ and serving on the Parish Council are welcomed by all.
Christine Whild 2007	Her outstanding contribution to music in Marcham has taken many forms: her playing, organising and production of Marcham V.E. celebrations; her contributions to many performances by the marcham Players and to services at All Saints’ Church are but a few of many. She has been a stalwart member of the Marcham Women’s Institute and has held a number of offices, playing a leading role in all its activities and generously sharing her many skills and enthusiasm with others. Her devotion and care of her husband Victor, through his long illness was an example to all and her unstinting work for charity, especially of the Local Alzheimers’ Group, has been exceptional.
Chris Ricketts 2006	Her leadership, support and enthusiastic contributions to the cause of Marcham’s youth have been outstanding. In particular her leadership and organisation of Marcham’s Cubs for more than twenty-five years, her efforts in establishing a Youth Group and in previous years her efforts in organising boys football for Marcham, youngsters have marked her out as the adult who has contributed the most for the benefit of youngsters in Marcham. She has also contributed actively and in the most hands-on fashion to the Sports and Social Club, Playgroup and Marcham School, and as a volunteer driver of the community minibus. Added to that is her service as a Parish Councillor for more than ten years.
Jack Spicer 2005	His enormous contribution to All Saints Church and especially its music through his role as Choirmaster and organist for more than twenty years has brought pleasure and joy to members of the congregation and to many families on special occasions such as weddings. His participation in the Senior Citizens’ Club and his contribution through organising programmes, events and outings has been a source of enjoyment to many. With his wife Elsa his wisdom, kindness and charitable nature have contributed to many village events and organisations and been of benefit to many individuals within Marcham.
Martin Thorne 2004	His editorship of the Marcham and District News for fourteen years has added immeasurably to the sense of community and brought shared interest and knowledge of the village to all parishioners. His musical prowess and playing has added greatly to the enjoyment of Marcham Players’ productions, scout and cub entertainments and church activities. His wisdom and enthusiasm have contributed to the work of the Parish Council, Marcham Primary School, the Cubs and the Sports and Social Club and been of benefit to many individuals within Marcham.