Daffodils planted in Norton in memory of town councillors (From Gazette & Herald)

Daffodils bulbs to be planted in memory of Coun Judith Denniss and Coun Richard Milner

12:11pm Wednesday 24th October 2012 in News By Karen Darley

HUNDREDS of daffodil bulbs are to be planted in Norton in memory of two town councillors.

The idea to plant the bulbs in the grass verge on Langton Road was first put forward by Coun Judith Denniss earlier this year to mark the Queen’s Jubilee and Norton Primary School’s centenary.

Following the death of Coun Denniss in August and Coun Richard Milner earlier this month, councillors agreed to go ahead with the planting in memory of both members as well to mark both occasions.

Mayor Coun Di Keal said a number of volunteers had been rallied to plant the bulbs.

“The Norton and Malton Tidy Group have agreed to get involved and Norton College is also starting a new scheme to encourage older pupils to volunteer to help in the community, so they will help out. I have also approached Norton Primary although we feel it would more appropriate if pupils were to be accompanied by their parents,” she added.

“I have also spoken to Mike Denniss and he is delighted the council is going to carry on with the suggestion in Judith’s memory.”

Funding of £300 had originally been agreed to buy the bulbs, however, deputy mayor Coun Ray King suggested that was doubled to commemorate Coun Milner as well.

“With the recent death of Coun Milner we should do something in his memory as well and increase the amount we spend, so the daffodils are in memory of both members,” he added.

Coun David Lloyd-Williams supported the idea and said the council should contact the Rotary Club for advice on planting.

“Rotary members planted the bulbs on Scarborough Road which has created a wonderful entrance into Norton,” he added.

“They may be able to give us some advice on the number of bulbs and the best way of planting so that this is just as successful.”

Councillors agreed to spend £600 on daffodil bulbs with planting due to take place in the next few weeks.

Coun Milner had been a member of the town council for a number of years.

He leaves a wife, Ann, three daughters and two grandchildren.

Coun Keal said: “It is with great sadness that members learnt of the sudden death of Coun Richard Milner.

“Known by many people in the town and a dedicated Nortonian, during his years spent on Norton-on-Derwent Town Council, he has always done his best to represent the views of local people and stand up for the community.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and our thoughts are with them at this very sad time.”

Coun Milner’s funeral was held at Octon Crematorium last Wednesday.