Earl Shilton Social Institute

John O'Callaghan
John is remembered kindly, a lovely man and an effective man in his work.
I had known John for about 20 years, originally when he was Community Vice-Principal at William Bradford Community College.
He had a warm and friendly nature, he was approachable and a good listener. He had a great way of helping people to develop their potential. He used a laid back approach - I’ll give you this information and tell you how to proceed if you want to – with no pressure or pushing. It was a great way for me and led me to progress my learning and career. He used the same laid back supportive approach at the youth club in the village, offering resources and staff on a short-term basis to “pump-prime” development. A short Computer project led to several successful grant applications for Computers and equipment that enhanced the facilities for the Youth Club, eventually leading to better IT facilities for the Social Institute where the youth club took place. Having these facilities has now seen the development of a Stute Website (www.thestute.co.uk) and a more effective management system by a volunteer.

Earl Shilton Social Institute is indebted to John for his support. He provided some access to college facilities for the benefit of the community through the ‘Stute. The Stute has also been going through a lengthy process of refurbishment and improvements to the facilities for which Grant applications have been made. It is essential that you have support of someone “in authority” that not only shows an interest but is also willing and able to support your cause. Through John knowing about the Stute he was able to initiate a £10,000 grant which has been used to further enhance the facilities for adult learning, some additional classes are currently taking place due to this. John was a good human-being; he is missed and will continue to be missed.
He will not be easily forgotten.

Trevor Radford
Trevor was a man who gave of his time freely to help our community and the local organisations in it.
He and his contributions will be sorely missed.
Trevor was a long time supporter of the Stute and of the Voluntary Committee. He understood the value of having this facility in the centre of the village and did what he could to support it in very practical ways.
He was able to access redundant furniture from other nearby organisations which helped replace old tables and chairs. This wasn’t a one-off occurrence but one that he kept his eye on and advised us when there were possibilities. He also supported the provision of a ramp access to enable people with disabilities to access the building. Trevor did this by negotiating with a local person to draw the plans free of charge and submit them for approval; we just had to cover expenses.
His commitment to the village was obvious with all he did. He supported and initiated many groups and developments. He worked for the general good of the area. Effort which he committed to the local community, including his support of the Stute, needs to be acknowledged by the whole village.
In the days of reducing voluntary effort, his demise is a loss to all of Earl Shilton and we, as a local voluntary organisation recognise this.
The loss of his steady drive and his energy is a great loss to the village.
He will be greatly missed.