It is with a heavy heart that we write of the very sad passing of Creetown Initiative’s Senior Projects Manager, Andrew Ward.
For well over over two decades Andrew dedicated his time to providing his support, knowledge and expertise to community development projects in Creetown, Dumfries and Galloway and across Scotland. His passion for the third sector was evident in his work and reputation. He was a giant (literally and well as figuratively!) in the third sector and many people (myself included) frequently sought Andrew’s advice.
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It is hard turn a corner in Creetown and not see something that Andrew had a positive impact on. Locally, Andrew’s work included the redevelopment of community buildings (Waverley Hall, Barholm Enterprise Centre, St Joseph’s Church, Creetown FC pavilion, Creetown Heritage Museum), improvements to community facilities (Creetown park, MUGA), community arts projects and sculptures, overseeing the management of youth and senior citizens projects and the instigation of Creetown’s bee conservation project, carbon energy improvements and many others. He was also a key volunteer for Creetown’s renowned ‘Country Weekend’ music festival.
Andrew was a skilled fundraiser and secured well over £10million for local and client projects Scotland-wide. It is impossible to list the entirety of his projects here, however his most notable successes included fundraising £1.1million for the Theatre Royal in Dumfries, £730,000 for Barholm Enterprise Centre in Creetown and a massive £2.6 million for the former Johnston School in Kirkcudbright.
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Anyone who had the privilege of knowing him, or working with him, will agree that his quiet charisma, his empathetic but firm approach and diligence to projects, was inspiring. On a personal level, I am very grateful for the many opportunities he has thrown my way over the last 10 years and I have learnt such a lot from him.
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It goes without saying that he leaves a large hole in our organisation and community, however he also leaves behind a huge legacy. This legacy, Creetown Initiative staff and Board of Directors will continue to grow.
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Our thoughts and love are with Andrew’s wife and family at this very sad time.
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~ Amy-Dee Watson
Senior Project Officer
Creetown Initiative
