Tributes pour in as community hero Chris Lathlane, of Newark, had an impact on thousands

A former Guide commissioner who devoted her life to helping others, described as enriching the lives of thousands, has died from cancer.

Mrs Chris Lathlane, of Newark, was named a Citizen of the Year in 2017 in awards run by the district council to recognise the work of unsung heroes.

She was the winner of the over 60’s category for her contribution to Guiding, the Methodist Church in Newark, children with special needs and other voluntary work.

Mrs Lathlane reopened 1st Balderton Guides when her daughter, Sharon, wanted to join Guides and places were limited.

She was a district and division commissioner with the Guides and led the Newark Ranger Unit during the late Eighties and early Nineties.

She led nine trips to Switzerland for 50 Guides at a time, organising fundraising events so that everybody could afford to go.

When she retired as a leader she continued to be involved as a member of Newark Friends of Guiding and a Notts County Trefoil member.

She enjoyed taking the salute at Newark St George’s Day Parade and was a member of the Newark District Gang Show committee.

Former Guides Jill and Alison Cousins said Chris had been an influence for hundreds of girls through Guiding. As a result many have gone on to be leaders either in Guides or Scouts.

“Chris will always be remembered as a fun Guider with the infectious laugh,” they said.

Another former Guide, Rachel Symonds Dodson, said Chris was extremely well respected by the Guiding and Scouting community.

“Those of us fortunate to have been inspired by her and given such wonderful Guiding opportunities will certainly never be short of the memories we shared with her,” she said.

Helen West said she felt lucky to be a 1st Balderton Guide with Mrs Lathlane as leader.

“She was a true inspiration and still is. I think of her and things I learned as a Guide and Ranger when working with my Guides today,” she said.

Mrs Lathlane worked for Reach (formerly Southwell Care Project) as the community officer for 14 years.

Project manager Steve Shatwell said she supported and cared for everyone.

“She helped many clients who had no parents or carers of their own.

“Whether it was arranging a wedding, helping someone move house or arranging someone’s catering,” he said.

“She has, throughout her life, enriched thousands of others in her community.”

Mrs Lathlane was also a life long member of the Methodist church and helped with the Newark Foodbank and taking people to church.

She leaves her husband Roger, children Sharon, Paul and Simon and grandchildren Sophie, James and Rachel.