Jim Kerr, Paul Murphy and Dennis Lloyd, after their presentation in Leamington Domain on Saturday. Photo: Michael Jeans
Three Cambridge men who have given decades of delight to families were presented with Community Service awards last Saturday from the town’s community board.
The surprise presentations were made to Dennis Lloyd, known colloquially as the ‘teddy bear man’, Jim Kerr, who for years has mended and made toys and bikes, and Paul Murphy, whose work with miniature trains has charmed people of all ages.
Jim and Paul were also recognised for their work with local bands.
Community Board members Sue Milner and Jo Davies-Colley did the honours. The annual awards are usually presented at the start of a regular Cambridge Community Board meeting, but a twist this year involved a suggestion by Paul – who until the event itself had no idea he was a recipient – that they hold it at Leamington Domain as part of a sunset picnic re-run of last year’s Teddy Bear’s Picnic, complete with live music, food, and miniature trains both big and small.
Luring him away from the little trains for his own presentation proved tricky, but his surprised look as his name was called suggested the secret had been well kept.
Sue said later that Paul received his award for services to the Cambridge Brass Band, the Anzac and Armistice committees, for his encouragement of young people to be part of those events, and for his involvement in taking the brass band to Le Quesnoy in France.
Jim Kerr was awarded his for services to the community through his involvement with the brass band and the Cambridge and Districts Pipe Band. He was acknowledged also as a noted model maker and restorer of toys that then go on to the Lions Club to either gift or on-sell.
Dennis Lloyd was awarded for the joy he provides to children and their families by donating soft toys to youngsters as he walks through the town centre.
