This year’s Chris White Award for Contribution to the Community was presented to Ann Wall at Bunbury Village Day on 13 June 2026.
The award was created in honour of Chris White, who sadly passed away in 2016. Chris was Treasurer of both Bunbury Mill and Bunbury Village Day, and the award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to our community.
Ann was selected to receive the award in recognition of the inspirational dedication and commitment she has shown in supporting the education of young people through school visits to Bunbury Mill.
Sixteen years ago, Ann joined Ernest Crowley and five other villagers in forming a charitable trust to purchase the Mill. Even then, she had a clear vision of what the Mill could become and the opportunities it could provide for future generations.
Two years later, when the Mill was purchased for the princely sum of £1, Ann began contacting local schools and assembling an enthusiastic team of volunteers to help deliver educational visits. Those visits quickly became a great success and continue to thrive today, with many schools returning year after year.
Ann’s enthusiasm knows no bounds. She is particularly proud of introducing pond dipping to hundreds of schoolchildren over the years. This popular activity gives children the opportunity to catch, study and safely return the fascinating creatures that live beneath the water’s surface.
Alongside her educational work, Ann has played a leading role in creating the beautiful wildflower areas around the Mill, which are now enjoyed by visitors throughout the year. She has also contributed countless hours in the Visitors Centre, from painting walls to creating engaging displays that help bring the Mill’s story to life.
For sixteen years, Ann has devoted an extraordinary amount of time and energy to the Mill. From liaising with schools and organising volunteers to promoting wildlife and inspiring those around her, her contribution has been immense.
We are sure you will agree that Ann is a truly deserving recipient of the Chris White Award for Contribution to the Community.