Press Release

Citizen and Young Citizen of Honour Awards 2026

9 June 2026

Fareham residents receive Citizen of Honour Awards

Two of Fareham’s residents have been recognised as Citizens of Honour for the positive contributions they have made to the local community.

Citizen of Honour, Doreen Mitchell, and Young Citizen of Honour, James Stares, were presented with their awards at Fareham Live on 14 May 2026.

Doreen Mitchell – Citizen of Honour (18+)
Doreen supports individuals and community groups with boundless energy, compassion and empathy, especially those facing health problems, bereavement and loneliness. She meets people regularly for walks and chats, visits those who are housebound or in hospital, and phones many individuals every evening to help combat loneliness.

Doreen supports the Young at Heart Group in Stubbington and is Chair of Fareham Cancer Research. An active fundraiser, she even abseiled down the Spinnaker Tower at age 81. She is a true volunteer who simply gets on with it.

James Stares – Young Citizen of Honour (under 18)
James passionately supports his older brother and many young people at Portchester Cricket Club across men’s, ladies’ and colts’ teams. Always on the sidelines cheering, umpiring when possible, and enjoying his own cricket, James is a familiar and much loved presence.

He has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and is non-verbal, but this has not stopped him being a loyal friend and inspiring supporter. His passion, kindness and infectious smile inspire others, especially through Super 1’s cricket, where participants admire and support him in return.

The outgoing Mayor of Fareham, Cllr Mrs Louise Clubley, who presented the awards at the event, said:

"As my final duty as Mayor of Fareham, it was a privilege to meet these remarkable members of our community. I was truly moved by their stories and hope they will inspire others."

Find out more about the Citizen of Honour Awards, including past winners, at the website: www.fareham.gov.uk/coh.

ENDS