Community awards for stalwarts...

Two couples have been recognized as “Citizens of the Year” for their long-term voluntary work in the Thirsk and Sowerby community.

Thirsk Town Council and Sowerby Parish Council made the awards at the start of a meeting of the Town Council.

John and Andrea Potter have given their time and dedication to the running of the Ritz Cinema for over 30 years since it was reopened on the initiative of the Town Council.

Now a thriving local asset, it has benefited from a new screen, better seating, surround sound and a digital projector replacing the old reel projector, creating a comfortable venue.

Making the award, which gives them the Honorary Freedom of the Parishes of Thirsk and Sowerby, the Chairman of the Parish Council, Mark Robson, commended them for their involvement in all aspects of the cinema.

John and Maureen Worley were founder members of the Thirsk Royal British Legion Band some 40 years ago.

The Band is one of Thirsk’s gems, providing music at events such as the Remembrance Ceremony in November and at concerts, even playing in the market place on warm summer Saturdays.

Importantly the Band offers young people training in playing instruments, at a time when music in schools is squeezed by shortage of money.

















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