Shirley Bell, QC (left) accepting her certificate from Member of Parliament for St. John Mara Thompson.
Over 30 St. John residents were recognised on Saturday for the contributions they have made in various areas to the island’s development.
This was done during a special awards ceremony held at the Gall Hill Playing Field in that parish. The Errol Barrow Day event was hosted by the St. John Reunion Committee and the
St. John Constituency Council.
As explained by Chairman of the St. John Reunion Committee, Anthony Waldron, the day’s activity was originally slated for Independence Day last year, but it was rescheduled to Errol Barrow
Day because of the heavy downpour that occurred on November 30th which prevented it from taking place.
Waldron added that he was “really hearten by the response” to the event.
He further mentioned that the occasion was conceptualised “to involve St. John” in this nation’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Saturday’s recipients were acknowledged for their contributions to fields including culture, sports, religion, education and business.
Among the individuals receiving awards were historian Trevor Marshall; Senator Professor Emeritus Sir Henry Fraser; Justice Shirley Belle QC; founder of Dancin’ African Jennifer Sealy; and former principal, Graydon Sealy.
The event began with an inspection of the guard by Barbados’ Attorney General, Adriel Brathwaite. There was also a re-enactment of the 1966 flagging raising ceremony. Like the ceremony on that occasion, Captain Hartley Dottin was on hand to lower the Union Jack and raise Barbados’ flag.
Musical presentations throughout the day’s proceedings included those by Junior Calypso Monarch 2016 finalist Dondrea, and singers Ronnie D and Tony “Poser” Grazette.
(MG)
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