Oswestry Duo Recognised by Shropshire High Sheriff

An Oswestry community duo, Mike and Linda Lade, have been recognised by the Shropshire High Sheriff, Jane Trowbridge, at a presentation held at The Sweeney Hotel in Oswestry.

During the ceremony, High Sheriff Jane Trowbridge presented Linda Lade with the prestigious High Sheriff’s Award in recognition of her exceptional work in establishing Oswestry Cancer Buddies.

Jane Trowbridge said:
“I am pleased to present Linda Lade with the High Sheriff’s Award for her outstanding work in establishing Oswestry Cancer Buddies. This initiative has provided crucial support and companionship to those affected by cancer, creating a strong network of care and understanding within the community. Linda’s dedication has made a significant impact, offering hope and solidarity to many. This award recognises her unwavering commitment and the positive change she has brought to countless lives.”

Linda Lade, organiser of Oswestry Cancer Buddies, said she was grateful for the recognition:
“It’s really nice to be recognised. The feedback from the group shows just how much these meetings are needed – they provide a safe place for anyone touched by cancer to talk, share the burden and make sense of everything that comes with the cancer journey. We’ve been running for a year now and are looking to expand to an evening and/or weekend session because there is clearly a need.”

Oswestry Cancer Buddies holds drop-in meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, in the Meeting Room at Oswestry Library, Arthur Street. The group welcomes anyone affected by cancer, including patients, partners and carers, regardless of cancer type. Attendees are greeted with a warm welcome, tea or coffee, and the opportunity to chat or listen to a guest speaker.

More information about Oswestry Cancer Buddies can be found on Facebook at @oswestrycancerbuddies, by contacting Linda on 07711 981984, or via email at oswestrycancerbuddies@gmail.com.

Jane Trowbridge also presented an award to Linda’s husband, Mike Lade, for his work as the founder of the Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run.

She said:
“I am delighted to present this award to Mike Lade, the visionary behind the Oswestry Illuminated Tractor Run. This High Sheriff’s Award recognises his outstanding contribution to the community. Mike’s dedication and passion have transformed a simple idea into a fantastic annual event that brings joy and unity to Oswestry while raising substantial funds for the Lingen Davies Cancer Charity. This award is a testament to his remarkable achievements and the lasting legacy he continues to build in memory of ‘Choc’ Roberts, who sadly died of a brain tumour at the age of 26.”

Mike Lade said:
“While it’s nice to receive this recognition, I’m really accepting it on behalf of the organising team of local Young Farmers and the volunteers from Lingen Davies Cancer Fund in Shrewsbury. Without their support and hard work, the event simply wouldn’t happen.”