Press Release

Friday 11th April 2008

Citizens to be honoured

Fareham’s Citizens of Honour will be awarded with their prestigious medals at this year’s Mayor Making Ceremony to be held at Ferneham Hall on Thursday 8th May.

The 2008 award winners are Valerie Rossiter, Heather Othen, Sylvia Rosewarn, Alfred Breeze, Micah King and Amber Horton.

• Valerie Rossiter helps those with Parkinson’s disease, their carers and family. She has worked tirelessly for many years with the Fareham and District Branch of the Parkinson Disease Society as a committee member, then chairman and currently its welfare liaison officer. Parkinson’s disease has affected many family members, including her husband but she still makes time to help and advise others.

• Heather Othen is a founder member and Lead Co-ordinator of Fareham in Bloom. Over the past 12 years Heather has devoted a great deal of time and effort to ensure the success of the local gardening competition and the Borough's entry into the regional Britain in Bloom competition. In 2007 Fareham won a Gold Medal and the prestigious title "Champion of Champions" for the whole of the South and South East of England.

• Sylvia Rosewarn, has been part of our community and daily routine as a lollipop lady for over 30 years. She goes beyond the call of duty. Not just remembering every child and carers names but also listening with a friendly ear. Always has a cheery smile in all weathers come rain or shine.

• Alfred Breeze is being awarded for his loyalty and selfless dedication to the causes that benefit young people and the community in general, including voluntary work with the Scouts over 75 years. A lifetime of service to others very few people achieve and a most worthy contender for this award in his 93rd year.

• Micah King, Young Person of the year (9 - 18 years old) is a selfless teenager. One of three brothers, Micah acts as a main carer to his youngest brother, who is severely autistic, supporting his mum, and providing respite for her. In addition, for two years Micah has given up his holiday time to work with the Let Us Play playscheme for disabled youngsters at St Francis School in Fareham and regularly helps out with the crèche at St John the Baptist Church in Locks Heath.

• Amber Horton, Young person of the year (4 - 8 years old) is a young heroine. Whilst on a family day out to the beach, Amber’s friend fell into the sea.  He was out of his depth and was struggling in the water. Amber jumped in and dragged him back to the shore with no concern for her own safety.

Chief Executive Officer, Alan Davies said: “These awards are designed to recognise and congratulate the many people in the borough who unselfishly do things for the benefit of others. I congratulate all the award winners and would like to thank them on behalf of the borough for all their time, effort and acts of kindness.”

Ends

For Further Information Contact:

Michael Langton, Communications Support Officer, tel: 01329 824416

fax: 01329 821518, e-mail: publicity@fareham.gov.uk