Sudbury Community Wardens recognised for work to enable safe re-opening of schools

The efforts of hard-working wardens in making schools safe to reopen have been honoured with an award.

The Sudbury Community Warden Team placed social distancing markers around six schools in the area, as well as supplying food for children at home during lockdown.

The group, which is run by the town council, won The Most Splendid Supporter of Schools title at the Covid-19 Awards organised by area businesses Altuity Solutions with JS Schools Photography.

Warden manager Bradley Smith said: “This award came out of the blue and I have learned we were nominated by St Gregory’s CEVC Primary School.

“I am really pleased to have been recognised. It shows how much people appreciate our service.

“We have been working closely with the headteachers, and we have been busy putting in social distancing markers.

“We also drop food parcels at the schools as children who would usually be getting a free meal at school may have been missing out while they were at home. So, we identified those in need and organised delivery.”

The wardens won the prize after coming out on top in a public vote.

Steve Voller, founder of award sponsor Altuity, said: “The community wardens’ commitment to local schools and the community is truly exceptional.

“The votes in support of the nomination from the local community decided the winner. The wardens can feel immensely proud that their work is recognised and appreciated locally.”

There was no prize ceremony for the one-off awards, but the team has now received a trophy.

Daniel Woodrow, headteacher at St Gregory’s, said: “Bradley and his team did an amazing job during lockdown, going above and beyond, not just for schools but for everyone in the community.

“They showed incredible compassion and resourcefulness and the whole of Sudbury benefited from their tremendous sense of community and togetherness.”