26 September 2018

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

The Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council has marked the exceptional work of community spirited individuals from throughout the district with a special awards ceremony on Sunday 16 September.

The Council welcomed 44 community champions and their friends and family to the South of England Showground in Ardingly to issue them with Community Service Awards. Presented by Councillor Bruce Forbes, Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council and Caroline Nicholls, the High Sherriff of West Sussex, the awards acknowledge the dedication to helping their community which has been shown by the winners.

Read about the East Grinstead award recipients

Each year, Mid Sussex District Council invites its Members, and town and parish councils, to nominate residents who dedicate their time, skills and energy to enhancing the quality of community life.

Dave Grimley was nominated by Councillor Pete Bradbury for the tireless work he has done to support grassroots rugby in Haywards Heath. Organised sport means so much to the local community but it is only possible because of hardworking volunteers who do so much behind the scenes. Dave has helped to rebuild Heath RFC on and off the pitch. He carefully maintains the club’s accounts and finances to ensure it remains in a sound financial position and he is an active mini rugby coach who brings real enjoyment to young children who are just starting out in the sport.

Malcolm Hulatt received a community award after being nominated by Councillor Sandy Ellis for the work he does to ensure blind and visually impaired people feel part of the local community. Malcolm is the Chairman of Yews Talking News, an organisation that has been providing audible news to blind and visually impaired residents in Haywards Heath since 1976. Volunteers read, record, edit and distribute audio recordings to keep visually impaired people fully updated on local news and events.

Nominated by West Hoathley Parish Council, Beverley Mager has been involved with local charities and voluntary organisations for many years. She was senior leader of West Hoathley Playgroup, is heavily involved with the local Scouts and is an active member of the British Legion. Beverley is always available to help at fundraising events and she supports local people through difficult times on a one to one basis through the friendship group she has helped to set up.

“Our Community Service Awards are such an important event in the annual calendar because they honour the members of our community who do so much to make Mid Sussex such a great place to live,” said Councillor Bruce Forbes, Chairman of Mid Sussex District Council.

“We have another amazing group of people this year who have undertaken a wide range of activities, fundraising and volunteer work. We are so fortunate to have such kind-hearted people who are willing to give up their time to help others and support the local community.

“Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate people for these awards and thank you to the recipients for all your hard work; it’s very much appreciated by us all.”