Prolific fundraiser Alan picks up an award

Renowned Welshpool fundraiser and event organiser Alan Crowe was awarded a bronze prize in the Volunteer category of the Welsh Veterans Awards at a Gala Dinner at the Vale Resort Hotel at Pontyclun in South Wales.

Although he has never served in the Armed Forces himself, Alan has always stated that he is in awe of the men and women who have or still do, and has always done whatever he can to support the veterans’ community.

The award was given for his involvement with the Royal British Legion, past fundraising on behalf of Help For Heroes, his work with the ENSA Memorial Appeal incorporating Stars in Battledress, his acknowledgment of WW2 veterans by placing thankyou flags on their graves to mark 75^th & 80^th anniversaries of VE VJ Day, organising VE Concerts and open air services for VJ Day, promoting the veterans hub and more.

“I was deeply humbled to be awarded the bronze certificate,” said Alan. “I believe I was the only civilian nominee in the whole of the different categories.

“I do what I do because that is who I am, not for any reward or recognition but I have to say that being nominated in the first place and then getting recognition for my efforts does give me the much-needed lift when the fundraising and organisation wears you down.”

Alan’s next major challenge is to get 10 or 12 commemorative benches for the Welshpool Memorial Garden in Howell Drive. So far, he has managed to get three and is currently fundraising for a fourth - a bespoke Royal Welch Fusiliers one - followed by one for each of the navy, army and air force.

Alan hopes that his nomination will lead to others who support the veterans of Mid Wales getting recognised as he felt that the recent awards were rather South Wales heavy with only himself from Mid Wales and a veterans’ football team from Wrexham flying the flag.

PICTURE: Alan being presented with his Bronze Certificate by Jennifer Smith of sponsors Thales Group.