Veteran fan named Community Hero

This weekend’s Fosters Solicitors Community Hero is John Kett, nominated by Norwich City fan group Forces2Canaries.

John has been a member of the Royal Naval Association for almost 40 years, having been on active duty for 16 years in the Royal Navy.

Nominated for his selfless commitment to caring for others, John has an extravagant CV since his well-earned retirement, which includes taking over the running of his family’s stall on Norwich market, volunteering on the North Norfolk Railway and holding the post of Branch Standard Bearer for over three decades.

He spends a large amount of his free time volunteering, whether it’s street collection or visiting elderly comrades or other ex-members of HM forces. John prides himself on helping those less fortunate and says it’s something that feels normal to him.

“To be nominated as a community hero by others is a pleasant surprise as what l do for others just comes naturally,” he said.

“Regardless of what service you were in, once you come out everyone is equal and one big family with their own stories and banter.

“Being a people’s person, l love to listen and talk to anyone.”

Chairman of Forces2Canaries, Neville Townsend, said: “John’s selfless commitment is evident, through his representation of the Royal Naval Association at parades, memorials, funerals and other events across Norwich and the surrounding area.

“He has successfully organised many key social events for veterans, most of whom he has supported in some way over the years. We, and all of John’s family, are extremely proud of him and all he has achieved.”

A Canary fan of many years, John’s favourite Norwich City memory was the fourth round FA Cup fixture against Manchester United in February of 1967. He watched Lol Morgan’s Canaries win 2-1 at Old Trafford thanks to goals from Don Heath and Gordon Bolland.

About our Community Hero initiative

Since 2019, Fosters Solicitors have joined our partners Norwich City Football Club in highlighting the great work of local individuals and organisations in our community.

Every month during the football season, a ‘Community Hero’ is chosen for a selected matchday – providing an opportunity to showcase that person(s) or initiatives selfless work or important community campaign.

Previous Community Heroes have included young carers, veterans, equality campaigners, charity fundraisers and their beneficiaries.

 Would you like to nominate a Community Hero this season? Please go to canaries.co.uk/club/heroes to tell us all about them!