Loving where we live in Tunbridge Wells

I've said before and I don't mind saying again that my customers in Tunbridge Wells are the friendliest bunch in the world. It is a real pleasure meeting them when I stop by for chimney sweep appointments.

I love where I live, in T Wells – and it seems a lot of other folk in the town wide area agree with me.

In fact, because we love the town and villages nearby so much the local council has even organised a 'Love Where We Live' awards ceremony which was held at the Assembly Hall Theatre on October 7.

The awards celebrate the people who make Tunbridge Wells Borough a great place to live. They recognise individuals, groups and organisations who are 'dedicated to helping others in our community, benefiting the environment, or accomplishing personal goals.'

There was a whopping nine categories in all during the recent awards. Bidborough Stores was given the overall award, as well as 'ethical business award'. Store owners Reshma and Kiran Masrani were commended for their commitment to the village community.

Among the other winners, 'charity of the year' was the Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support services; Friends of Grosvenor and Hilbert Park won 'best group'; 'sports achiever' went to Langton Green Netball Club; Josh Smith, 16, was 'young sports achiever' and Fiona Pengelley of Paddock Wood Community Advice Centre won 'individual hero'. Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors were given 'safer community'.

John Couchman from Horsmonden got a well deserved lifetime achievement. He has been caretaker of the village hall for 25 years, supported the cricket club for 60 years and used to help elderly folk in his job as a plumber, often working for a minimal fee. I LOVE tradesmen like that. People like John inspire me to do my best in my own chimney sweeping work! What an inspiration!