LODDON TOWN COUNCIL

🏆 Freedom of Loddon 2026 – Congratulations to Steve Burton 🏆

We are delighted to announce that this year's Freedom of Loddon Award has been awarded to Steve Burton, in recognition of his outstanding and longstanding service to our community.

For decades, Steve has dedicated countless hours to making Loddon a better place for everyone. Whether through his work with the Loddon Players, writing and producing our much-loved pantomimes, leading community initiatives, supporting local schools and youth groups, or more recently serving as Chair of the Chet Valley Medical Practice Patient Participation Group, Steve has consistently put others first.

His leadership of the St George's Park residents' campaign has helped give a voice to local people, while his work with the medical practice has supported thousands of patients and helped secure vital equipment and improvements for the surgery.

Perhaps what stood out most in this year's nominations was not just the incredible range of Steve's contributions, but the way he carries them out – with kindness, humility and a genuine desire to bring people together. One nomination beautifully summed it up by saying that Steve "doesn't seem to realise just how much joy he brings to the town."

Even while facing significant health challenges over the past two years, Steve has continued to give his time, energy and enthusiasm to our community without seeking recognition.

Steve truly embodies the spirit of the Freedom of Loddon Award, and we are proud to recognise his exceptional commitment to our town.

Please join us in offering Steve Burton our heartfelt congratulations and thanks for everything he has done – and continues to do – for Loddon.

The award will be presented to Steve at The Loddon & District Horticultural Society’s annual show on 5 September 2026 held at The Jubilee Hall.

👏 Congratulations, Steve, and thank you for your extraordinary service to our community.