Tribute paid to 91 year old volunteer

On Friday 6 December, Woolsington Parish Council held a ceremony to recognise the achievements of local hero Archie Cook.

A local Callerton hero

On Friday 6 December, Woolsington Parish Council held a ceremony to recognise the achievements of local hero Archie Cook.

Family, friends and neighbours gathered to the ceremony where an oak tree was planted and a plaque unveiled
For more than 30 years, Archie Cook has been maintaining the beautiful rural image of Callerton.

After becoming involved in the Britain in Bloom competition, Archie has been working tirelessly in all seasons planting flowers.

Using his own allotment and greenhouse, Archie has dedicated his own time and costs maintaining verges and barrels, lovingly maintaining over 15 flower beds.

Inspirational Archie has been given prizes by the Duchess of Northumberland and also been invited to HRH Queen Elizabeth’s garden party in recognition of his services to the community.

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Watch highlights from the ceremony which took place on Friday 6th December. We spoke to those who know Archie.

Watch highlights of the ceremony

Cllr Nick Kemp, Cabinet Member for Environment and Regulatory Services said:

"To volunteer, is to commit time and effort to others simply because you feel it is the right thing to do and that you believe in community spirit.

“Volunteers play such an important role across our great city, and are increasingly valuable with the continued and significant cuts that we as a Council face,

“To do so for so many years is a truly remarkable achievement, of time and commitment, and I am delighted that your local community appreciates this service and has acted to recognise you.

“To have volunteered for such a long and continuous time is an incredible achievement and one that warmly deserves to be acknowledged in a public way. What better way to celebrate years of volunteering than with such a strong symbol as an Oak Tree.

“Archie, I would like to personally and on behalf of Newcastle City Council, place on record our huge appreciation of all that you have done, and all that your volunteering symbolises, you truly are a local hero, an ambassador for volunteers across the City, I hope that you have a great day of celebrations and I look forward to meeting you soon."

To volunteer, is to commit time and effort to others simply because you feel it is the right thing to do and that you believe in community spirit.