Bucks Council announces two 'exceptional' local community heroes

Bucks Council has named two local heroes it is recognising for doing ‘exceptional’ work in local communities.

Bucks Council’s Chairman Patricia Birchley has awarded Mike Clare and Paul Jenning as the authority’s local heroes.

Mike Clare is a local entrepreneur, businessman, and philanthropist, and Founder and Chairman of the Clare Foundation, a charity that brings together other charities and organisations. Mike received the Chairman’s Award for his commitment to championing and supporting Buckinghamshire’s voluntary and community sectors.

Paul Jennings is Chairman of the River Chess Association (RCA), an organisation dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the River Chess, a rare chalk stream of great ecological value. He has been actively involved with the RCA since 2009. Paul received the Chairman’s Award for his dedication to the conservation of the River Chess and for a life-long commitment to raising awareness of its environmental importance.

Speaking at the awards presentation, Chairman Birchley said: “I am delighted to present Chairman’s Awards to Mike Clare and Paul Jennings for their exceptional services to the local community. Their dedication and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others in Buckinghamshire is truly inspiring. I hope that their work will continue to encourage others to get involved and make a difference in their communities.”

More information about the Chairman's Awards is available online.

Accepting his award, Mike said: “I'm proud and honoured to receive the Chairman's Award. However, it is very much about The Clare Foundation. I've seen just how hard our staff, including CEO Martin Gallagher and our fellow trustees have worked over the years to support charities and businesses to help increase the happiness of residents of Buckinghamshire and the surrounding areas. Thank you to everyone who has played their part.”

Paul said: "Thank you for this award. It has really been a team effort, with everyone working extremely hard and diligently over the last 15 years. It's also all about partnerships, and we've been lucky to work positively with the local water companies and Buckinghamshire Council and look forward to tackling the emerging challenges as we progress.”