A SUPERMARKET worker described as a “ray of sunshine” is one of dozens of people set to be honoured at a special banquet this week.
Roy Pennington, an employee at the city’s Asda store, will be joining about 160 others at the Mayor of Worcester’s People’s Banquet at the Guildhall on Friday (October 10).
Coun Alan Amos said he wanted to focus this year’s event, traditionally known as the Mayor’s Banquet, on celebrating residents who go above and beyond the call of duty to help others.
The guest list includes retail assistants, post workers, nurses, hairdressers, volunteer fund-raisers, army recruiting officers, community volunteers and small business owners.
Coun Amos said he was delighted to give something back to the people he felt deserved to be recognised.
“I have completely revamped what was the Mayor’s Inaugural Banquet into the People’s Banquet,” he said.
“It is a good way of giving something back to the people of Worcester and thanking them for the unsung work they do every day.
“Many people never get recognised for just doing that, so I decided that the City should say thank you.
“I invited Roy because he is a ray of sunshine. Whilst we shoppers are rushing around looking miserable, he always finds time to have a cheery word with customers, asking how they are, in a good old fashioned traditional way. For that brief moment, he brightens up the life of everyone he meets at checkout.”
The red carpet will be rolled out ready for guests as they arrive at the People’s Banquet, who can then enjoy a drinks reception, three course meal and speeches.
Live music will also be provided by Will Thompson-Brant, Creative Director of Bohemia Entertainment, an exciting young new musical talent based in Worcester.
