Ladock retiring church warden is latest High Sheriff Unsung Hero
Shirley's work in Ladock has earned her a High Sheriff of Cornwall Unsung Hero Award
Shirley Soper, retiring church warden in Ladock being presented with the High Sheriff of Cornwall Unsung Hero Award by High Sheriff Kate Holborow with her son Luke Soper (image: High Sheriff of Cornwall)
A retiring church warden has been presented with an Unsung Hero Award from the High Sheriff of Cornwall for her contribution to the village of Ladock.
Shirley Soper of Ladock Church was presented with the ward by the High Sheriff, Kate Holborow, at the end of the Mothering Sunday Service March 14.
Shirley was recognised both for her contribution to the church and community in and around Ladock, Cornwall over so many years, as well as her work during lockdown in supporting the vulnerable and isolated, when she was herself shielding on her own at home.
Kate said: “Ladock is a much richer community as a result of Shirley’s work. She makes a friend of everyone she meets and sits at the centre of village life, always there to welcome newcomers to the village, visit the sick in hospital and support the bereaved.
"She is an amazing ambassador for Ladock Church both within Ladock and in the neighbouring parishes of Probus, St Erme and Grampound with Creed.”
Until recently Shirley was Church Warden of Ladock Church, a post she had held for many years.
She is also on the parish council and a long time governor of Ladock School.
In spite of struggling with health problems of her own, during lockdown she worked to send handmade cards to vulnerable, shielding and self-isolating members of the community, following up messages with phone calls and arranging for further contact with clergy where necessary.
For many these were one of very few contacts with the outside world and were so much appreciated.
The nomination for Shirley Soper was made by Jeremy Sharp, church warden, Ladock Church.
He said: “Shirley has been providing pastoral support in the community for many years, but the way in which she responded to the unique circumstances of lockdown has been an inspiration to us all, as well as being a lifeline for many vulnerable and isolated people. We are all truly grateful.”
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