Local Resident Phillip Venning Awarded Queen Mother Medal

It was nice to see over on the Ham&High that local resident Phillip Venning has been awarded a Queen Mother medal for outstanding contribution to heritage crafts.

    Venning, who has already been awarded an OBE, was awarded the Queen Mother medal this month for setting up a project that allows studying craftsmen to watch experts at work and therefore allowing their specialist knowledge to be passed on.

    Venning lives in the oldest building in Hampstead, appropriate considering his background in conservation. The building played host to the likes of Charles Dickens and William Blake, and was an influence on Vennings interest in restoration and conservation. He is also heavily involved in the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings.

    Venning has a soft spot for the architecture of Hampstead, and was quoted in the Ham&High as saying 'What's lovely about Hampstead is the much simpler Georgian cottages. And also the narrow little alleyways and the old steps. It gives the area character and identity.'

    It's good to see a local resident being acknowledged for their work, and also Hampstead's history and beauty being appreciated.