Alex Lang has been involved with safety organisation Crucial Crew for about 30 years, teaching children about safety, and is also involved in Stevenage Community Trust and The Rotary Club of Stevenage.
As part of our series of Q&As with local figures, we asked Alex what he loves best about working in Stevenage.
How would you best describe your job or role in the community?
Company director, volunteer, trustee, Rotarian, fundraiser - but not necessarily always in that order! I'm determined to build a permanent safety centre to replace the existing Crucial Crew schemes in the county - still looking for an elusive £2.3m (or any part thereof!) to make this become a reality!
How long have you worked in Stevenage?
Around 30-plus years - until I retired in 2009, and that's when the 'work' really started! Now, there aren't enough hours in a day!
What is your favourite landmark in the area?
As I'm a bit of a 'tree' person, probably Astonbury Wood - I also like water, so Fairlands Lakes.
What local shops do you most like to visit?
Dependent on what I'm after at the time, I use a great number - but can be seen in WH Smith, Hobbycraft, Toolstation, Sainsburys - not so often now in the Wine Society!
What is your favourite place to go out to eat?
Without a doubt, it is 'Spice Rouge' in the High Street - been going there since it opened in 2010.
What is your favourite pub?
Not a great pub-goer as driving home would be a problem, but probably the Fisherman PH in Fishers Green - our Rotary Club meets there. Great food, helpful staff!
What do you think makes Stevenage unique?
Its people and the community spirit along with organisations like Stevenage Community Trust, plus the cycleways and green open spaces!
What places in Stevenage would you most recommend to visitors?
For leisure, probably Fairlands Valley Park - for shopping the Westgate Centre, Indoor Market, and Roaring Meg, plus small independent specialist shops in the Old Town.
Who is your local hero?
A 'celebrity' choice would have to be Lewis Hamilton and Ken Follett, local civic leaders would be the late Hilda Lawrence and Sherma Batson, and amongst other folk - Andy Smith of Stevenage Scouts, who must be the fundraiser of the century. As there are so many others, I'd need a whole Comet edition to name them all!
What would you do if you were mayor for the day?
So many things, but to prioritise a few - celebrate the town's founders and the people who have helped make it great over the years - survey all local charities and not-for-profits to see what support they need to get back on their feet, as many have not qualified for central government financial help, and finally, a free ice-cream for all residents!
What impact do you think COVID-19 has had on Stevenage and its businesses or events?
Pretty much the same as other towns in the UK - coming out of it will be the real test - thankfully, we have organisations dedicated and geared-up to help - Stevenage Borough Council, Herts Chamber of Commerce, and many others.
What do you love most about Stevenage?
Apart from the drive in via several routes through beautiful countryside, it is the many wonderful and generous people I've met over the years, the green spaces and floral roundabouts in the town and the way they are maintained - top marks to parks and gardens! Also its variety, be it leisure activities, shopping or commercial concerns, and of course, the town regeneration.
If you would like to take part or nominate someone you know from our areas for a Q&A, email anne.suslak@archant.co.uk.
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