THERE has been much to celebrate over the past few weeks for Bow resident Alan Jewell, who reached two very special landmarks in quick succession.

Alan received the first award for his length of service as Bow AAC treasurer, having served for a total of 60 years.

Shortly after came the second award, this time for 32 years as St Bartholomew’s Bow, church warden.

As well as being loyal Alan is also a tireless worker who is incredibly caring and willing to give up his time.

Alan took up his role as Bow AAC treasurer in 1956, on what is now a comically “temporary basis.” He was playing for Bow at the time and had been playing there as a winger since 1949.

Alan has always been supported by his wife, Barbara who worked tirelessly with a group of volunteer’s to raise much needed funds for the club. He would be the first to say that she has played a major part in his achievements.

Alan has a passion for football, which has carried him through the 60 years of service he has achieved; whether it be playing, watching or chatting about it in the local pub, football flows through his veins.

This is what earned him the Eric Manning Memorial shield, presented at Padbrook Park Golf and Country Club by the Exeter and District League on May 26 - the first person to be awarded this trophy.

Chairman of the club, Doug Coles said: “For the past 60 years our Football Club has been lucky enough to have Alan as treasurer.

"He is totally dedicated to making sure the financial side of the club is in exact order – even down to the last penny!!

"Without a doubt the club would not be in such a strong position without his input.

"He is held in total respect by all his fellow committee members (past and present) and all the club players throughout the years.

"An avid supporter, he rarely misses a home game and also supports most of the club’s social events.

"He is a true clubman and Bow AAC would not be the same without him.”

Alan’s second award was given for another long service, this time to St Bartholomew’s Church, Bow. He has attended the church all of his life, his first job there was to pump the organ, aged seven. Alan went on to become Church Warden in 1984, serving faithfully and quietly with the support of his wife. Together they have attended meetings, cut grass, cleaned brass, arranged flowers, dressed the altar and helped organise many fundraising and social events.

On Sunday, June 5 Alan was presented with a garden bench for them both to enjoy, whilst Barbara received a bouquet of flowers. The presentation was made by Rev Lindsey Starrs at the family service, she thanked Alan for his loyalty, his faithfulness and his kindness.

Retired Methodist Minister Ken Hext said: “For us, Alan has been the perfect church warden, I know that his dedication and grace to the role over the years have been second to none.”

"He is now retiring from his role as church warden, leaving some very large shoes to fill.

To top it off, Alan celebrated his 83rd birthday with his family on June 18.

Paul Reed