Northiam community hero honoured by the Queen

Peter Hayman, 78, who lives in Northiam, was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to the village community.

The RAF veteran, of MainStreet, moved to the village in 1958 and since then has held key community posts, serving on many committees, such as the parish council and Northiam Village Hall Trust.

Before moving to Northiam, Mr Hayman was stationed at RAF Wahn in Germany for three years.

In 1986 he became churchwarden at St Mary’s Church and still holds that role.

Mr Hayman was also chairman of Northiam Parish Council for a total of 13 years in two separate stints.

Last year a seriois fire broke out at a village property and he was first on the scene, working with the community to provide immediate help for the unfortunate homeowners.

Mr Hayman said: “A car had caught fire outside the house and the fire spread. I put them up in accommodation when they had nowhere to live.”

In 2006 Mr Hayman became chairman of Northiam Village Hall Trust and now serves as vice-chairman.

He administrates the maintenance contracts on the multi-use buildings, as well as arranging the hall for weekly gatherings and fundraising events.

In his role Mr Hayman serves as a central contact for local police working closely with the authority to engage young people, encouraging the younger generationn to get involved in equipping the children’s play area.

Mr Hayman served as a governor of Northiam Primary School from 1990 until 2009.

Speaking about his award, he said: “I received a letter around a month ago saying I was being put forward for the award and was quite surprised.

“The award reflects the hard work of all the parish councillors and those who work for the village.”

Mr Hayman was one of several people from 1066 Country to be honoured in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List, each receiving the British Empire Medal.

Joan Downing, councillor from Westfield Parish Council, was recognised for services to rural inclusion, Mary Norah Howse, for services to the community in Beckley and Rye, Myrna Rae Festing, for her services to the community in Rye, and Mary Joan Taylor, who was recognised for her services to the community in Burwash.

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