A couple who have breathed new life into one of Trowbridge’s empty public houses have been honoured at this year’s Civic Awards.
Craig and Kerry Stone, directors of Stone Developments (Wiltshire) Ltd, were presented with a Town Enhancement Award on Saturday at Trowbridge Civic Centre (March 23).
Trowbridge Mayor, Cllr Stephen Cooper, presented the award for their transformation of The Ship Inn on the Frome Road, which had lain vacant since closing in 2018.
Cllr Cooper also presented individual Civic Awards to joint winners Jill Neighbour, manager of the Storehouse Foodbank, and Robert Colebourne, a volunteer with Trowbridge Town Hall, the Trowbridge Weavers Market, Trowbridge Future and The Down Cemetery.
Cllr Cooper said: “For many years The Ship Inn on Frome Road was known locally as a friendly pub with a pleasant atmosphere. Unfortunately, after years of success at the heart of our community, economic decline forced the pub to close in 2018.
“Local builders Stone Developments eventually purchased the property and proceeded to convert the original pub building into light and airy one and two-bedroom apartments as well as utilising the old pub car park to construct a new building containing an additional six larger homes.
“The final outcome is a development of energy efficient homes, all suitable for 21st-century living whilst retaining the character and charisma of one of Trowbridge’s landmark public houses.”
Craig and Kerry Stone have been approached for a comment.
The Civic Award is awarded annually by the Town Council to someone who has made a significant material contribution to the welfare of the people of Trowbridge.
This contribution can be in the fields of community or charitable service, personal self-sacrifice made or notable assistance given to the benefit of the townspeople of Trowbridge, or a significant contribution to the advancement and well-being of the town.
Cllr Cooper said: “I can honestly say that both these people have enhanced the lives of those they’ve touched in our town, and for that, we are all in their debt.”
He described Mr Colebourne as a volunteer who is a "regular presence at events across the town" and as having a constructive and practical impact on community events whenever he’s involved.
"His infectiously positive attitude is an inspiration to all those he comes into contact with. Always smiling, always amenable and always ready and willing to help and assist wherever and however he can."
Jill Neighbour was unable to attend the awards presentation due to illness. The Wiltshire Times has approached her for a comment.
Describing her contribution to the town, the mayor added: “The second person to receive a Civic Award tonight is a truly unstoppable force whose determination to help those in need in our town is not just admirable, to be honest, it’s a little bit scary as well!
“Her dedication to those in our community who have lost safe access to the physical necessities of life, food, warmth and often a place to sleep, is a true testament to her philosophy that whoever you are, whatever your circumstances, with a bit of help and support you can regain hope and rebuild your life."
Mr Colebourne said afterwards: “I am very proud. I’d like to thank the mayor and everybody that voted for me, and also the people of Trowbridge for making me a better person. They are absolutely amazing.”
The annual civic dinner and dance helps to raise funds for the two mayoral charities, Stepping Stones and Trowbridge Future.
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