Tag Archives: Sheila Smith

Sheila Smith Memorial Walk

Sheila in 2012 when presented with a 50 years of service to Ramblers certificate
Sheila in 2012 when presented with a 50 years of service to Ramblers certificate

A memorial walk for Sheila Smith, a stalwart of Norfolk Area Ramblers, took place on 10 April 2016. The walk remembered Sheila’s work and also visited the bridge which was built as a memorial to her.

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The walk was well attended by members of numerous groups across the county and many stories relating to Sheila’s work and contributions were discussed.

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Two speeches were made at the bridge in honour of Sheila, including by Richard May, the new area chairman.

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There was a small table of memories of Sheila at the hall afterwards where refreshments were provided and stories discussed. It was a rewarding day for all and an opportunity to ensure that Sheila and her work will be remembered.

New Bridge at Topcroft as Memorial for Sheila Smith

A new memorial bridge has been installed at Topcroft to replace the old damaged structure. The council have completed the work in the south Norfolk village following involvement from a Norfolk Ramblers group.

The bridge was identified by Sheila Smith as one which need replacing. She noticed that the bridge needed some work in one of the last walks she was to write for the EDP Norfolk Magazine. Although Sheila had contacted Norfolk County Council regarding the state of the bridge the work hadn’t been completed.

Sheila sadly died in September 2014 and at her funeral donations were collected for a project in her memory which would improve the public rights of way in Norfolk. Sheila was a tireless volunteer for Norfolk Ramblers and as a memorial Southern Norfolk Group members decided to use the monies raised to fund the new bridge. After some protracted discussions with the County Council the work was approved and the group has ensured that the work to replace the bridge was completed.

Southern Norfolk Ramblers will be holding a walk in memory of Sheila on Sunday 10 April 2016 when a plaque on the bridge will be unveiled.

 

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The above photo shows the bridge before the work took place.

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The completed new bridge.