AN ENVIRONMENTAL activist hailed as a community champion received recognition when a tree was planted in his honour.  

Members of Woking Liberal Democrats gathered to plant the holly tree outside New Life Church in Old Woking, to commemorate the hard work and achievements of Norman Johns. Norman is a much-respected party member over many years and a former borough councillor. 

County and borough councillor Will Forster spoke of the role Norman played in training many members of the local party, and of his approach, as a councillor and an environmental campaigner, to making things better for residents.

“Norman’s achievements are an inspiration to us all,” said Cllr Forster. “He is a true ambassador for the Liberal values of community and environmentalism. We thank him for all he has done for the Lib Dems and for Woking.” 

Norman, a retired fire service officer, is well known by many in the Woking area for his flamboyant sense of style and friendliness to all he meets. 

He said: “Having recently recovered from a health setback, I am happy to be back doing the things I love. These include drawing, community gardening and continuing to make a difference for residents through campaigning for safe cycle routes, green spaces and a brighter future for the next generation.” 

The Lib Dems said they chose a holly tree to honour Norman because it is a symbol of what he stands for, bringing to mind the Greek proverb “A society grows when old men plant trees in whose shade they will never sit”.