Spike Townsend awarded Freeman of the Parish for Colne Engaine

Gordon “Spike” Townsend has been awarded the Freeman of the Parish of Colne Engaine.

The presentation was organised by parish council chairman Alan Barnard on behalf of Colne Engaine Parish Council.

It was a successful evening with councillors and villagers present to see the award being made.

Spike, as he is known by residents, was the driving force behind the new war memorial being built in the village.

Honoured - Spike Townsend with his Freeman of the Parish award (Image: Public)

This involved pulling together a committee of volunteers to manage the project through to its successful completion including fundraising, planning permission and construction.

Upon completion, the parish council agreed to adopt ownership and responsibility for the ongoing maintenance of the structure for future generations.

Spike was also heavily involved during the COVID pandemic where he was again instrumental in establishing a service for the parish through the central support function within the village.

This included a manned telephone line and pulling together and organising a team of volunteers to offer support for those who were vulnerable.

Spike was also the first resident of the community to undertake the role of community special constable with Essex Police, with responsibility for the villages of Colne Engaine and Earls Colne.

In recognition of these remarkable achievements, the parish council of Colne Engaine said it was “delighted” to present Spike with this award.