Thank-you 1,000 times over

Parish council chairman Mike Reed presented the certificates to Steyning fire station manager Keith Strivens, David Humphreys and chamber of trade chairman Ian Ivatt, at the chairman's evening event earlier this month.

Mr Strivens was recognised for almost three decades' service to the town as a firefighter, assisting the parish council and for training youngsters in fire safety.

He said he was pleased to win the award, adding: "I was surprised to get it. I have done fire certificates for Scouts, Brownies and the St John Ambulance people taking their fire badges.

"It is something I have been involved with over the years, and I have been here for 27 years serving the community."

Mr Humphreys received his certificate in recognition of a number of acts, including fund-raising for Steyning's Poem on the Stone, in Mouse Lane.

He also gives up his time to help the elderly, including driving them to hospital for appointments, and works with a charity supporting disabled people.

Mr Humphreys is also a leader of the Steyning Health Walks, held twice a month for the elderly or those recovering from or living with medical conditions. The walks take in the Ste-yning area and are normally around one or two miles in length.

Mr Humphreys said: "It was a surprise. With all these things I do, I don't expect anything out of them at all. I am very, very pleased '“ delighted. It is not just for me; it is for all the organisers whom I am involved with."

In addition to being the chairman of the chamber of trade, Mr Ivatt is president of Steyning Athletic Club, an author of books about the town and its residents, is the founder and now chairman of the local history society, and also served as a parish councillor and a governor of St Andrew's Primary School. He said of his award: "I was very surprised I got it. I was stunned. It is a wonderful honour. I am really chuffed."

Parish council chairman Mike Reed said: "I was delighted to present the certificates to people who make Steyning what it is.

"All three demonstrate the level of commitment some members of the community are prepared to make to help others. It is people like them who help make Steyning such a caring community and a very desirable place to live."