Stratford's 'treasure' a winner

Judging by the rapturous applause that greeted the announcement of the winner of the Romeo Award for Best Female Service Person , it would appear that Collette Holgate was a popular choice.

Manager of the Stratford Transfer Station, Collette is known to most people in the town as being passionate about recycling, although she was surprised by her win on the night.

"I thought I was just going along to have some food and a few drinks really."

On being presented with the Romeo Award, Collette took the opportunity to "thank every one of you who comes to the transfer station", before reminding everyone to "keep recycling".

Collette says she appreciates the support she receives from Stratford District Council, as well as Waste Management.

"Without support I couldn't do this job, and I really do love it, I have worked hard all my life, on farms and the such, now this job is perfect for me. I live here as well, so it is a full lifestyle for me."

Collette says that just being nominated "made me realise how much people do appreciate what I try to do here, and that means I am going to step it up even more, to be deserving of the trust and recognition they have given me".

Collette says the whole night was a lot of fun. "It was great to see people all dressed up, although lots of people don't recognise me when I am not in my high-vis. I think the organisers did a great job with the night overall."

Collette doesn't just encourage customers at the transfer station to recycle, she lives it herself, with a couple of dogs and several chickens finding a new home with her.

"There is need to throw away a lot of things, there is always someone else who has a use for them, and I love finding the new owner for something that someone else no longer wants."

One item that won't be ending up in the rubbish bin anytime soon is the golden statue that is now on display at the transfer station. "I have had plenty of people come in already to tell me well done. It is nice to hear and nice to be reminded that people do notice what you do."