Luis Martelo, a busker well known to Taunton shoppers was presented with the Citizen of Somerset Award by Thomas Sheppard, the High Sheriff of Somerset at a recent gathering of the Taunton Rotary Club.
Luis has a background in meeting challenges and helping others. He was thanked by the retailers Hatchers for the work he did to prevent shoplifting, taking a constructive approach to reduce crime but also assist the perpetrators. He is currently building his skills as a boxer and will be boxing in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West.
No challenge is too big for Luis and he is well known for his superlative trumpet playing. Despite winning many music awards Luis, who is a veteran and originally from Portugal busks in a number of Somerset towns including Taunton. When approached to see if he could help with the commemorative Concert to the Royal British Legion last November (2021), Luis and his band not only gave of their time to help the Rotary choir practise but also performed at the event. The event raised over £3,000 for charity and Louis’ trumpet rang out for the last post.
Louis lives with his wife and 5 children in Taunton. He is a true ‘Friend of Rotary’ and a dedicated and talented man.