Church Army Evangelist, Rose Hudson-Wilkin, came to our shores as part of the Windrush generation. But I had not given her too much attention till Easter Sunday when she was being interviewed for an item on the BBC News, her radiant smile simply shone through the screen, and utterly captivated me.

The last time I saw anybody with that much love inside of them, was when the Reverend David Williams of St Mary’s in Andover, approached anyone.

He would greet you with twinkling eyes and a grin from ear to ear and instantaneously you would be bathed in the spirit of our Lord’s grace.

This leads neatly into my theme for this week’s column.

I guess the basic need to be loved, nurtured, to simply feel safe, remains with us throughout our lives. I see it in all walks of life, people organically searching out for what they need at any given time, be that food, shelter, water, warmth, love, or someone that can truly listen and lighten their load.

Friends known to me in this town and beyond, offer succour to those requiring help, working silently sometimes, just on the end of a phone, absorbing the grief, pain, sorrow, of those that contact them. One such person is Chris William who was presented with his Attitude of Gratitude Award in two thousand and sixteen. Almost five years later he is still being of service, not only in his private life but on duty here in Andover as the photos on this page show.

Others who have gained their own awards, are similarly working, and devoting their thoughts energies and time, freely given, in the service of those that seek their assistance and help.

As an Attitude of Gratitude Campaigner, I interpret my role to be promoting what is good in people, and businesses, highlighting our architecture, photographing our parks, rivers, landscape. On the odd occasion, when the opportunity presents itself, I’m privileged to be able to chat to those that appreciate the changes to our town, as you can see in the photo of Naomi with her family. Every day isn’t always good folks far from it, but there are blessings and beauty in every day.