Surprise book of thanks for ‘unique’ Phyllis on behalf of Ottery St Mary

A special presentation thanking Phillis Baxter for all she has done for the town was made at the Tour of Britain party on Sunday. Ref sho 36-16SH 7101. Picture: Simon Horn. (Image: Archant)

A ‘unique’ community stalwart - known as ‘the heart of Ottery’ - has been honoured with a book of thanks on behalf of the town.

Phyllis Baxter has been the manager of the tourist information centre for more than 10 years and was surprised with the gift at a Tour of Britain celebration picnic on Sunday ahead of her imminent retirement.

The book, presented to her by Mayor Glyn Dobson, is filled with messages of thanks from friends, councillors, traders and many other members of the community.

Councillor Dobson said: “I have worked with Phyllis for 10 years and wanted to thank her for all she has done in supporting me and for the town.”

The front cover of the bound book says: ‘Our Phyllis. Thank-you’. The tourism manager said she was ‘gob-smacked’ to receive it, but assured people she would still be on the scene in a voluntary capacity.

Councillor Josefina Gori, who has worked closely with Phyllis for many years, said: “Phyllis has not only been someone that has helped tourists, but also organised many events for the town and she is the face new people meet.

“She is the heart of the town and whatever goes on in the town, people expect Phyllis to be there. She is unique to the town.

“Everybody loves her. The book we presented to her was signed by so many different businesses and friends in the community.”

Phyllis said: “It was such a surprise. I did not know anything about it. I love the book.

“From the bottom of my heart, I thank everybody. I was just gob-smacked.”

Phyllis will continue to work as a volunteer in the tourist information centre from Seasons Tea Rooms in Silver Street. It is due to move into the new library in the former NatWest building when renovations are complete.