Hundreds of Willaston residents turned out to witness the village green’s re-naming ceremony.
The popular Nantwich village now has a green named after former parish councillor Mike Heywood, affectionately known as “Mr Willaston”.
Mike’s family, including wife Judy and grandchildren Georgia and Beth, also attended as the green’s new mosaic sign designed by local artist Nancy Torr was unveiled.
Residents and representatives of many Willaston organisations and groups were persent, as well as Katharina Manier, a member of the Council of Bischofsheim, Willaston’s twin town in Germany.
Speeches were made by the Reverend Ken Sambrook, Ian Potts from Willaston Scouts and Willaston Ward Councillor Brian Silvester.
Cllr Silvester said: “Mike was a wonderful, lovely man. He was gentle, quietly spoken, kind, patient and caring.
“He worked tirelessly for the residents of Willaston, for the Parish Council, for the Scouts, for Willaston in Bloom and a variety of other groups and other organisations.
“Whatever event you went to in the village he was almost always there, showing support, commitment and giving a word of praise.
“Mike was elected to the Parish Council in 1996 and became Chairman in 1999. It was at this time I was elected as the Willaston Borough Councillor and when I got to know Mike.
“As soon as you met Mike it was like you had known him all your life. He was always so friendly, welcoming and helpful.”
Among many achievements, Mike worked to improve the village playing fields and helped secure £50,000 of grants to refurbish the children’s recreation area.
He also helped to introduce a community speedwatch scheme in the village, and helped Willaston win a number of Britain on Bloom Awards.
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