Ken Ward has been presented with the 2002 Ashby de la Zouch Town Council civic award.

The council presents the award to recognise those 'who have given service of great benefit to the community' and it is awarded on behalf of the people of Ashby.

Nominations are made by members of the public and the decision is taken by the Town Council - which said Ken has contributed to Ashby life for the past 50 years.

The council added: "As a member and chairman of the Civic Society, he has been involved in many matters, including town planning alterations, fighting for what he thinks is best for Ashby, and generally stopping or modifying a project which is unsuitable.

"Ken has contributed to many various structural aspects which have improved Ashby, from fighting for the retention of the Tourist Information Centre, organising Ashby in Bloom, commissioning architects to hard landscape the top of Market Street, (Now Ashby Spa WI Garden), and organising the installation of the armillary sundial through the Civic Society, as well as promoting the extension of Ashby's protected conservation area.

"On the social side, Ken has been a leading member of the Ashby Dramatic Society, contributing not just to the productions, but also in the retention and improvement of the Venture Theatre. This has added value to the quality of life for the residents of Ashby.

"Ken has led the way in promoting excellence in the design of newbuilds and the renovation of buildings with the Civic Society building awards, the plaques are still visible on many buildings in the town. Ken has worked tirelessly to try to get the Royal Hotel restored to its former glory along with the protection of the Bath Grounds, both jewels of Ashby.

"Ken was also very actively involved in Ashby's Cultural Quarter Working Party and insured the retention of the ornate water park gates, helping to retain and promote Ashby's strong heritage.

"Through the Civic Society, Ken has, for many years, worked to influence the local and neighbourhood plans and local planning.

"He consulted with HS2 on the design and impact on the town and prevented Market Street restrictions and one-way systems after proving accident figures were inaccurate.

"Ken was involved with commissioning an architect to hard landscape the top of Market Street.

"Now Ashby Spa WI, the garden is very well used and is an area of delightful local beauty for visitors, residents and local wildlife.

"Ken is actively involved with the Ashby Venture Theatre as chairman, along with acting, directing, set building, play reading committee and running of the bar.

"He also organised the first folk night and the jazz club, which after 30 years still has excellent attendances. Ken volunteered over 10 years at Leonard Cheshire homes as a mini bus driver and befriender.

"Ken is a very worthy winner of the 2022 Civic Award."