T-Rex in a garden, community heroes and vaccine celebrations: Here are 10 Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth stories from 2020 that will make you smile
OK, 2020 has been a terrible year - but there were also plenty of rays of hope. Let's end it with a smile.
By Philip Hibble
Published 24th Dec 2020, 11:04 BST
Updated 24th Dec 2020, 11:10 BST
Every year we put together a review of the year for Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth.
But things have been a bit different for everyone in 2020. So we thought it was best to reflect on the things that have made us smile.
Here's to a happy 2021!
Here's to a happy 2021!
9. The cook who served up more than just food
Lockdown hero Molly Bufton-Stear from Kenilworth received an award from Boris Johnson for her service to people in the town.
The Points of Light award, handed out by the Prime Minister’s office, is given to individuals who are making a change in their community.
Since the start of lockdown in March, the 22-year-old has served over 45 elderly Kenilworth residents in her community with fresh, homemade meals.
After volunteering overseas in Zanzibar, Tanzania last year with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) through the government funded International Citizen Service (ICS) scheme, Molly was keen to use the skills she developed to her the most vulnerable in her community in Kenilworth.
Molly said: "I know there are so many people doing amazing things and I hope this community spirit continues on into the future.” Photo: Picture submitted
10. Amazing businesses showed their community spirit
The lockdowns and tier restrictions have left some of our businesses on their knees - sadly many will not survive.
But it is fair to say that they have responded to the situation throughout the pandemic with amazing determination.
Pubs and restaurants turned to take out food, while many furloughed staff handed out free food to those in need.
And we repaid them by going back once the first lockdown had lifted. We were kept safe thanks to the Covid-safe measures they brought in, often at their own cost, and met with a friendly smile (behind the masks).
To all those pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops and all businesses - thank you. We really hope we can come back very soon and pass on our thanks in person.
Pictured here is Andy Lock, general manager at the Virgins and Castle in Kenilworth. Photo: Picture submitted