Maureen Sheldrick retires as Councillor
Dear All
Never in my wildest dream did I imagine when I came to Weston Green in 1984, that I would be elected to represent the residents as their Councillor for 16 years. What I did discover was that it was a 'special' place not only by the setting in which it was located but that the people were also 'special'; they were extremely welcoming, something much lacking in other areas in which I had lived previously, except as a child.
On becoming your Councillor I discovered even more; not only were you helpful and kind but full of detailed information about the area, most of which could never have been gained from reading books or other printed matter, this in turn enabled me to be a most knowledgeable Councillor, particularly when 'fighting' planning enquiries, in order to preserve the character and amenities of Weston Green and Thames Ditton.
My memories are full of times not only when representing you within the Borough but times spent amongst you socially; and of your generosity, not only in the community spirit of the occasion but also financially, particularly in respect of Marney's and Milbourne ponds. They of course include the afternoons spent with Tannia in her kitchen making marmalade and jam, which we subsequently persuaded you to buy to aid such fund raising.
I could not write to you all individually so by way of this letter please accept my most sincere thanks. I would not have achieved as much as I did without your help and kindness. THANK YOU - it has been a great privilege and pleasure to have served as your Borough Councillor.
Maureen Sheldrick
Over 20 years ago Maureen became first, minutes secretary and subsequently Hon. Sec. of the Resident's Association. As Councillor her work for our community and for Elmbridge grew so much that she opted for early retirement from running three companies so that she could concentrate on representing us as fully as anyone could wish. She has sat on all the main Council Committees at one time or another!
Passionate about defending our commons and green spaces, Maureen is applauded for her work towards the restoration and maintenance of the ponds, and also for successfully getting a ban on nightlong heavy lorry movements through the quiet streets around the Woodlands - her campaign to get it enforced continues.
Maureen was an excellent and warm-hearted Mayor of Elmbridge. In that rôle she took especial pleasure in raising £70,000 for "Hearing Dogs for Deaf People." Maureen has given generously of her time in a host of small ways too, from aiding residents with problems caused by flooding, to helping an Australian adoptee track down his real mother's family. Last summer, a determined Maureen was the driving force in getting the stolen antique red tiles replaced along the pavements of Weston Green. Surrey Highways and their contractors were 'unable' to source replacements. But Maureen knew where to lay a hand on them! We are delighted to add that we can continue to count on her enthusiasm and counsel as a Vice President of the Residents' Association.
Thank you, Maureen.