Celebrating our local heroes

They ranged from a man who started his own charity to help provide poverty stricken families with food to a ten year old girl who organised a sale to help elderly people.

There were eleven categories of award winners on the night and the winners were voted for by members of the public.

Presenting the awards were Gary Hoffman and Jay Wooton, from main sponsors Hastings Direct, who were assisted by former BBC presenter Beverley Thompson, High Sheriff Michael Foster and Hastings Mayor Judy Rogers.

The award for Best Community Person went to Hastings Half Marathon organiser Eric Hardwick MBE who said: “I represent the thousands of runners who take part.”

Winner of the Mini Marvel Award Laura Young, aged ten, who organised a charity event for the elderly, was described by Beverley Thompson as ‘an amazing young lady’.

The award for best voluntary group or charity went to Dom’s Food Mission. The charity collects food to redistribute to the homeless and needy, reducing food waste and assisting the vulnerable.

The award for outstanding bravery went to mum of three Ann Sandeman who has lived with cancer for over 10 years and has undergone seven courses of chemotherapy, five of radiotherapy and numerous operations.

The sports person category was awarded to golfer Chelsea Masters who was Sussex Champion in 2015.

Justin Rollings from sponsors Sussex Coast College presented the contribution to the arts award to Bexhill Choral Society.

Super senior award winner Roger Gillett is still active with the Sussex and Hastings Table Tennis Association at the age of 82.

A special recognition award went to Tim Reeves, a tireless supporter of St Michaels Hospice, who , this year, raised £5,000 in a single day.

The hero to animals award was won by Barby Keel, who runs an animal sanctuary at Bexhill, Despite having survived cancer and a heart attack, she has dedicated her life to caring for animals.

Best Community event went to Christchurch Festival of Flowers in Bexhill. The three day show raises money for good causes and attracts more than 1,000, visitors.

The best coach category was awarded to Eugenie Demeza, who has been an inspiration to many older ladies, getting them more active.

See Friday’s Observer for more pictures of the awards and winners.

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