A local minister has been acknowledged during this year’s presentation of The Eric Chadd Award, a coveted title bestowed by the Bude Rotary Club.

The Eric Chadd Award is presented annually to an individual in the local area who has provided commendable and valued service to the community over a considerable period of time. 

There have been many worthy winners over the years covering a wide range of activities and the most recent recipient is Deacon Debbie Marsh, a member of the ministry team in the Bude and Holsworthy Methodist Circuit. 

She was presented with this prestigious award by the president Rob Cox at the club’s recent Christmas dinner and festive evening.

The award is made in memory of Eric Chadd who was, over many years, a successful local businessman, a founder member of and active participant in the Rotary Club, a long-serving member and distinguished chairman of the parish council and a Justice of the Peace.

A spokesperson for the Rotary Club of Bude said: “Debbie Marsh was ordained in 2013 in Southwark Cathedral. 

“She trained in South Yorkshire and the West Midlands and served a number of churches and worked in various communities before coming to Bude. 

“Her ministry is conducted anywhere and everywhere she can be found locally, from the pulpit to the local pavements. She is passionate about serving people generally and particularly in giving time and care to those on the margins of society who struggle daily in their lives, reaching out with guidance, advice and strong personal support. 

“She seeks to make the church accessible and welcoming to all.

“When she can relax away from her busy ministry, Debbie’s hobbies are sewing and any craftwork and she is a do-it-yourself enthusiast. 

“She also enjoys being by the ocean and walking two Jack Russells.”