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Ladysmith field, road dedicated to volunteers

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Two-well known names, and stalwarts in the volunteering community, have been immortalized on the map of Ladysmith.What was formerly referred to as Lot 108 artificial all-weather turf field is now known as Forrest Field. In a ceremony on May 1, it was also announced that the road leading up to, and stretching past the field, shall be known as Jim Cram Drive.Forrest Field is named after Denny and Mary Forrest, who moved here from Australia in 1975 and have since woven themselves into the fabric of Ladysmith, serving as volunteers in not only the soccer community, but also around town. Denny helped bring the Div. 5 49ers all the way to the premier level, is a two-time cancer survivor and former councillor, these are among only a few of the notches in Denny’s belt. “It’s beyond an honour,” said Denny after the recognition. Mary, who admitted she knew little about soccer when she came to Canada, served the beautiful game as a volunteer for many years.Jim Cram is perhaps best known as a long-time Ladysmith teacher, but his accolades do not stop at the school chemistry lab. He also served as Scout Master, coached three school sports, was named Volunteer of the Year for 2010 and has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching.“I’m very humbled,” Cram told the crowd after receiving his honour.It was another milestone for the field which is considered the ultimate in community spirit, requiring planning and patience from the whole town to see the land converted into the field and new mobile home park.





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