A RETIRED teacher described as an ‘unsung heroine’ has been recognised for her tireless contribution to the community.
Viv Oddy, from Abbots Morton, was presented with the Wychavon Diamond Jubilee Community Recognition Award trophy and a cheque for £200 by council chairman Coun Val Wood at an awards ceremony last week.
The kind-hearted woman was nominated for the award by Abbots Morton Parish Council for her services to the village over many years.
From designing and painting sets for the Village Hall pantomimes, photo cut out booths for the fete and an appeal board for the church fund-raising project, Viv has dedicated a lot of time to helping the village.
As well as that, Viv also cares for the emotional and physical needs of the older residents in Abbots Morton by offering to take them to hospital for appointments and by putting on social events to make sure they do not become isolated.
After receiving the award, Viv said: “It is a pleasure to be able to help those in my community as much as possible.
“After caring for my father I realised the needs of others, particularly those who are elderly and venerable. I am fortunate enough, since my retirement, to have the time to help others. So my saying is ‘I do it because I can’.”
Coun Val Wood, Chairman of Wychavon District Council, said: “Making the award this year proved, as always, very difficult with so many worthy nominees who have contributed to the wonderful community life we have in this district.
“It was agreed by the judging panel that the winner was Viv Oddy who has, and still is, offering outstanding support to so many in her village.
“On behalf of Wychavon District Council may I offer a big thank you to all those who have proved as selfless as The Queen in whose name the awards are given.”
