Damian writes a regular column in the Petersfield Post, and below is a a copy of the column published today:
"I was delighted to be at the Petersfield Awards again this year, and witness the amazing talent, enterprise and success of individuals and organisations across the town. And it was clear to all why the word ‘awesome’ was at the heart of the proceedings.
Petersfield is brimming with people who make a difference, whether it is for the service they offer their customers, the help they offer as volunteers, or the contribution they make to local sport, entertainment or the community at large. And it’s wonderful to see it celebrated.
I was particularly pleased to see the new Dementia Friendly Award presented to Jeff Williams, who continues to do a fantastic job in promoting the work of Dementia Friendly Petersfield. The fact that fifty organisations have already pledged their support is testament to his hard work but also the civic responsibility felt by many people in the town.
There was also an ‘end of term’ feeling on the evening, as conversations hovered around the subject of school holidays and plans to make the most of the break. Petersfield is certainly a great ‘gateway’ to many gems: the outdoor pursuits of the South Downs National Park and Queen Elizabeth Country Park, a short journey away from some of the best coastline in the UK, and with some unique attractions right on its doorstep.
Last week saw the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death, and although there has already been a great deal done this year to celebrate it, there are likely to be those locally who have yet to visit her home at Chawton. The same may be true for the beautiful grounds at Gilbert White’s House in Selborne, or the uniquely powered entertainment on offer at the Hollycombe Steam Collection in Liphook.
And not much further away, the Watercress Line will keep the young and old train enthusiasts happily occupied, as would the heritage on offer at Butser Ancient Farm. And for fisherman of all ages, Meon Springs is the place to go for some fine fly-fishing.
Add to this the pleasures of the Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool, exhibitions at the re-sited Petersfield Museum, various outdoor musical and dramatic productions to watch, or just the adventure of picking fruit at one of the local farms, and we’re a little spoilt for choice.
It’s no surprise that this area attracts a great number of tourists from across the UK and around the world, and that is great news for our local economy, with many businesses and jobs reliant on the spending power of visitors.
So, when we head out locally during the summer break and get stuck behind a trail of slow traffic, can’t find a free parking space at a favourite spot, or wish the queue in front of us was smaller, let’s remember the boost to our local traders, some of whom probably wish it was a summer break all year round.
May I take this opportunity to congratulate all the winners (and nominees) at the Petersfield Awards, and thank them for the ‘awesome’ contribution they make to the life and vibrancy of Petersfield. I would particularly like to congratulate Imogen, not only for winning the Young Achiever Award but also for her acceptance speech. A truly inspiring young lady.
A town is so much more than a physical mass of buildings and landmarks; it’s the people that give it a sense of unity and purpose, and Petersfield has that in bucket loads."
Written by Damian Hinds and published in the Petersfield Post, 26th July 2017