Congratulations to Mike Clarke – A True Community Champion

Everyone at Haslewey would like to offer our warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to trustee and volunteer Mike Clarke on receiving a Haslemere Volunteer Award for his outstanding services to the local community.

At Haslewey, we can honestly say Mike is one of the kindest, most caring and selfless people we know. Nothing is ever too much trouble and no task is ever beneath him. Whether helping in the kitchen, fixing maintenance issues with his trusted toolbox, repainting the car park markings to perfection or keeping Haslewey’s gardens looking beautiful, Mike is always quietly getting on with the job — never asking for recognition and always putting others first.

Mike has been a volunteer and trustee at Haslewey for several years and cares deeply about ensuring Haslewey continues to thrive as a welcoming community hub supporting local people and groups. Thanks to the many maintenance and improvement projects he willingly takes on himself, Haslewey has saved significant amounts of money over the years — funds that can instead be reinvested directly back into supporting our community.

Before dedicating so much of his time to volunteering, Mike served as a full-time soldier in the British Army for more than two decades. His dedication to supporting veterans and servicemen and women is reflected in his enormous commitment to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Alongside fellow volunteer Jim Edwards, Mike helps organise Haslemere’s hugely successful Poppy Appeal, coordinating volunteers across collection points including Tesco, Waitrose, Marks & Spencer and Haslemere Station. In recent years, the appeal has raised more than £40,000 annually, making it one of the most successful in Surrey — something Mike works tirelessly towards every year.

Mike is also one of the driving forces behind the successful biennial Haslemere Fringe Festival. As the festival has grown and attracted thousands of visitors, Mike has taken responsibility for coordinating the hundreds of volunteers needed to ensure the event runs smoothly, safely and professionally.

Despite everything he does, Mike remains incredibly modest and never seeks praise or recognition. He is always there at trustee meetings offering ideas, practical support and solutions, always wanting the very best for Haslewey and the wider community.

On 18th March 2026, Mike’s kindness and dedication were formally recognised when he received a Haslemere Volunteer Award at a special ceremony celebrating people who freely give their time and wisdom to the community.

At Haslewey, we see first-hand just how much time, kindness and care Mike gives to others. He is someone people can always rely upon and Haslemere is incredibly fortunate to have him.

Mike, from all of us at Haslewey — thank you. Your kindness, generosity and unwavering dedication do not go unnoticed and this award could not be more deserved.

Many congratulations and very well done.