A NEW award is to be presented annually by Wellington Town Council in memory of the highly-regarded community stalwart Richard Fox.

Mr Fox, a familiar face in Wellington throughout his life during which he contributed huge amounts to the local community, passed away at Musgrove Park Hospital, in Taunton, on Boxing Day, after a short illness at the age of 85.

The death of Mr Fox, who had been a Freeman of Wellington since 2010, shocked and saddened many people.

His funeral was held at Taunton Crematorium on February 8 and followed by a wake at Wellington Rugby Club, attended by hundreds of people.

Wellington Mayor Cllr Marcus Barr, told councillors he believed it would be a good and appropriate idea to introduce the Richard Fox Award.

Cllr Barr said: “I do not think we appreciate the good work some people do in the town.

“I was touched by what I heard about Richard Fox at his funeral and he really did go above and beyond for the local community with a real ‘can do’ spirit.

“That is why I would like to introduce this new award to recognise the efforts of people in our town.”

Deputy Mayor Cllr Catherine Govier said: “I think it is a great idea and I fully support this.

“We will be honouring the memory of Richard, but also honouring somebody else at the same time.”

Councillors were in unanimous agreement that the award should be launched and chosen each year solely by the mayor.