A sad year

This year has witnessed the death of three individuals each of whom made a significant contribution to the welfare of people.

Kevin Lynes was a member of Kent County Council's Cabinet and worked hard for the people in his division, particularly the residents of Sherwood.  He was also a leading figure in the creation of Kent Savers Credit Union.

Val Griffiths was employed by Kent County Council as a detached youth worker.  She became a friend of numerous disadvantaged or troubled young people and helped them recover (or indeed discover) their self respect.

Cathy Gaunt was employed latterly by a charity based in West Kent. For much of her working life  she supported seriously disadvantaged groups.

I knew all three for many years and, in their own way, each was a 'one-off'.  Isn't it sad that we only recognise the true worth of an individual when it is too late to tell them.