Stroud heroes met Rishi Sunak with at Downing Street

Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie invited two local community champions to Number 10 so they could be thanked by the Prime Minister for their work.

Chrissie Lowery, the founder of the women’s safety group Safe Space, and Russell Cook who is a first responder volunteer with the ambulance service in Stroud were nominated by the Stroud MP. 

They were invited to meet Rishi Sunak at the No10 reception on Wednesday evening along with other community champions from across the country.

Safe Space is a community of businesses providing a safe and secure place for women to go to in Stroud if they are being followed or feel under threat in any way. 

Russell undertakes his first responder duties despite working full-time in environmental technology. 

Both have met with the Stroud MP previously and she recognised their commitment to the community with the nomination.

"I was thrilled to be chosen to be a community champion and extremely honoured," said Chrissie.

"The day was amazing and Siobhan was a beautiful host, spending lots of time showing us around Number 10 and Parliament.

"It means the world to be recognised, to meet the Prime Minister and we can’t wait to help even more women and young girls with Safe Space."

“I feel privileged to volunteer with such a great bunch of people and help the people around Stroud," said Russell. 

"Thanks to my employer who lets me have time off at short notice and my family. My wife Diane has to sacrifice things as well when I have to dash off in the evening or get back in the small hours."

“What a pleasure to go to No 10 Downing Street with people from the Stroud constituency," said Ms Baillie.   

"It was wonderful to see them chatting away with the Prime Minister and recognised for the incredible work they selflessly undertake for our communities. 

“It was a highlight of the week for me and I congratulate Chrissie and Russell.

"They have my heartfelt thanks for all they do for local people.”