WHEN he stepped down from Ludlow Town Council, Graeme Perks promised that his service to the town would continue as a volunteer.

Mr Perks was a member of the old South Shropshire District Council before it was disbanded.

His volunteering in and around the town has included the skill builders project, teaching young people artesian skills like carpentry and cookery. He and his wife were behind the Young Chef competition and he has also been one of the Ludlow litter pickers.

A skilled craftsman, having been trained at the London School of furniture, Mr Perks put his woodworking skills to good use making Ludlow's 'Silent Soldiers.'

Now he spends much of his time, in his workshop bringing old benches back to life and in the process not only showing a lead in recycling, but also giving people in and around the town, a chance to take a rest and admire the view.