Plaque unveiled at ceremony to honour the late Cllr David Stares

The sensory garden in the new play area at Woodford Park was planted in Cllr David Stare’s memory and a plaque commemorating David was unveiled today by the Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel.

Cllr David Stares was chairman of the Leisure Services Committee when the new play area in Woodford Park was first suggested and was at the forefront of driving the project forward. 

The event was attended by his family, councillors, local residents and members of the running club Reading Roadrunners of which David and his wife Diane were members.

“David was kind and caring and always wanted to do the very best for the local residents of Woodley. He would have been delighted to see so many happy children playing in the new play area. I am honoured to unveil the plaque, dedicating the sensory garden to David,” said Janet. 

David and his wife Diane were a huge part of Reading Roadrunners and were always helpful, working together to raise money for charities, volunteering to help,” said one Reading Roadrunners member.

“David was always happy to help. I can remember us working together as marshals at the London Olympics 10 years ago for the men’s and women’s marathons and road cycling events. It was a memorable time and an example of how David was always happy to volunteer,” said Carl Woffington, Reading Roadrunner member. 

“I’d like to thank everyone who came today to commemorate David. It was a pleasure to work with him and it is especially touching to have a permanent memorial for him in the play area that he was so instrumental in getting off the ground. He has left a wonderful legacy for the residents of Woodley,” said Woodley Town Council leader, Cllr Keith Baker.