Chichester residents honoured at Civic Awards

Mayor Michael Woolley said it was a very ‘humbling’ occasion and that it was very encouraging the city had such a wealth of people willing to get involved with their community.

Eight civic awards were presented, as well as two Young Citizens awards.

These were presented to Connor Humphrey, ten, for being a responsible older brother and helping his mother to care for his two younger brothers, while Bishop Luffa pupil Tobias Stockman was presented with an award for his unstinting work around the school helping organise events, being a member of the school eco- committee and his involvement with the church.

Ray Carter was recognised for his 15 years’ work with the Chichester Combined Cadet Force, providing a wealth of opportunities to hundreds of young people.

A former pupil at Chichester High School for Boys where CCF is based, Mr Carter said his work with the cadets was a way of giving something back in return for the school’s excellent education.

Former director of Wileys publishers Michael Foyle received an award for his work with the arts in the city, which has included being the Chichester Festivities chairman, a trustee of Chichester Festival Theatre as well as being a member of numerous groups.

He is also chairman of the New Park Community and Arts Association, which announced last December it had raised enough money to begin work on its transformation.

Accepting his award, Mr Foyle said: “You’ve got to try to get good people, and then just keep out of their way and let them get on and show you what they can do.

“This is the approach I took at Wileys and the festivities and what I hope to do at New Park as well. You can’t do it without good people.”

Chairman of Chichester Community Transport Margrith Hose was also recognised.

She has been an advocate for vulnerable members of society and is involved with Chichester Access Group, the Otters swimming club for people with disabilities and West Sussex Access for the Disabled.

Founder of the Information Shop for Young People, Alison Madden was praised for establishing a counselling service for the city’s young people.

Mrs Madden said she and other volunteers were excited about the coming year and looking forward to ‘throwing the doors open and letting young people know we are here to help them’ as part of expansion plans.

Former teacher and social worker Chris North, who is involved with groups across the area, received an award for working on behalf of disabled children, adults and their families, and providing fun play activities through his Freedom Through Fun workshops.

Chartered surveyor John Parrott was recognised for his dedication in helping numerous charities across the area with their finances.

Steve Taylor and Ruth Valerio were presented with an award for their work in turning around the Whyke Estate to create a community where people are proud to live again.

Starting with installing benches and planting trees, the area is now a glowing example of a community working together.