THE villagers of Romaldkirk paid tribute to local businesses which adapted operations to become invaluable sources of support to the public during Covid.
In recognition of the work which local firms carried out, and to give an opportunity for the public to say thank you, the Romaldkirk Community Awards presented glass commemorative plaques to three businesses.
A special award was given to Cheryl Robinson and her team at The Rose and Crown, Romaldkirk, for their extraordinary service in designing and delivering a not-for-profit fruit and vegetable service during the first lockdown.
When everyone feared the worst, and supermarket deliveries were unavailable, The Rose and Crown provided a valuable local hub where, on a fine day, a few socially distanced words could be exchanged between friends and neighbours.
Cheryl’s radical idea was to benefit not just the villagers but also to give business to one of her regular suppliers even when all pubs and restaurants were closed.
Resident David Newham said: “In such difficult times it takes a special person to lift their head up and ignore for a moment the profitability of their own business and look for ways to help the local community.”
Awards were given to Coghlans of Barningham and The Orchard of Barnard Castle to recognise the excellent service they gave to the community by providing regular deliveries as part of their businesses.
These deliveries continue to serve the village and it is hoped will remain into the future as a positive outcome of the effects of the pandemic and as an alternative to online grocery shopping.
A collection was taken at the awards event in aid of Ukraine.
