The first award they received was called Green Spaces for Health and recognised the dedication and enthusiasm of their Walk Leaders in making their Wednesday Walkers Group a real weekly treat for the local community and other park users. Phil Griffiths (former Chair of The Friends) their Senior Walk Leader and Editor stepped up to receive the much deserved trophy. Phil says, “We know how important regular exercise is to retain good health and we will continue to promote this activity to engage with even more local people as the physical improvements to our park come to completion”.
The second award was called Dudley’s Got Talent and was awarded to a Friends’ Group Member of the Year. Chris Rich has been their Secretary for more than a decade and was instrumental in securing the Heritage Lottery Funding which is the reason the Park in presently undergoing some wonderful improvements. She has the vision and the energy to keep their volunteers together. Chris can be seen in the park every day and is a well known and much loved character in the community. Chris says, “FOPP has many dedicated volunteers who all contribute in different ways to make our group successful. I would like to say a big thank you to all of them for making Priory Park such a beautiful open space for everyone to enjoy”.
Keith Williams was also recognised for his weekly volunteering in the park. Keith gives his expertise as a gardener and provides a warm smile and a friendly welcome to their many visitors.
Mariann Harris Chair FoPP