Local veteran honoured as Cotswold District Council celebrates November’s Unsung Heroes

The Unsung Hero Awards were launched by the Council in 2024 to recognise individuals who have made a difference in their communities without seeking public recognition. The latest group of award winners were announced at a special ceremony before a full meeting of the Council in Cirencester yesterday (Wednesday). 

Veteran Allen Howe, who has chaired the Cirencester Branch of the Royal British Legion for the past 30 years, was celebrated at the ceremony  for his decades of commitment to veterans, cadets and local remembrance. Allen has 36 years of Legion membership plus long service in the Army and Ministry of Defence, and, according to his nomination “plays a central role in organising the annual Poppy Appeal, Remembrance Day events and fundraising concerts across the area.” 

When asked why he does what he does, Allen said: “It’s hard work, but it's well worth it. I do it because I love it!” 

Chair of the Council, Cllr Mark Harris, who presented the winners with their certificates, said Allen’s win was especially significant as it comes in a milestone year for veterans. “This recognition falls during a poignant month for communities across the district, as residents have gathered to honour those who served and reflect on the 80 years that have passed since the end of the Second World War,” he said. 

Also celebrated at the ceremony were three siblings who completed the Three Peaks challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowden to raise money for two separate school projects. The Forbes children – Heath, 12, Otis, 11 and Heidi, 8 – managed the challenge in just 22 hours. Heidi is now believed to be the youngest girl to have completed the climbs in less than 24 hours.  

Money raised as part of the challenge will be going towards two local causes: the Big Build at Hatherop Primary School, which Heidi attends, and a new astroturf pitch at Farmor’s School, where Heath and Otis are pupils.  

Joining Allen and the Forbes siblings as Unsung Heroes this month were three other community champions. 

Micael (Mike) Svensson, from South Cerney, was recognised for his commitment to keeping the local Scout group running. This includes stepping in to help with leadership, sustaining multiple sections of the group, volunteering at village events, and maintaining the Scout hut grounds.  

Also celebrated was holistic therapist Amy Curtis, who donates her time to Charlie’s Cancer Support Group in Cirencester. Offering free reflexology and reiki sessions twice a month to those affected by cancer.  

As part of our Young Unsung Heroes awards, Police Cadet volunteer Liam Radford was honoured for completing 68 hours of service this year on top of recording over 105 last year. His commitment to assisting at community events including running the children’s sports day at the Chesterton Summer Family Day. 

Chair of the Council, Cllr Mark Harris, praised all of this month’s winners, and said: 
“These awards are about recognising those who give so much of themselves, not for praise, but because it’s who they are. 

“Allen’s leadership and service during Remembrance month feel especially meaningful, and each of our November winners has made a remarkable difference to their communities which has been so wonderful to hear about. 

“If you know someone who goes above and beyond in your community, nominate them for our next round of Unsung Heroes in the new year!” 

More information about the Unsung Heroes Awards can be found here.