Their removal van exploded in a massive fireball and not only were irreplaceable family keepsakes such as wedding photographs destroyed, but also the specially adapted equipment that helped them in their day-to-day lives.

For most people in the twilight of their lives, the prospect of having to rebuild their entire existence from scratch would have been too much to bear.

But Dennis and Bernice Houghton are no ordinary pensioners. Having overcome the initial shock and distress of the fire, they redoubled their efforts to achieve a dream move to the south coast.

Eastbourne Homes, which manages all the council's housing stock in Eastbourne, quickly got to work looking for a property that would suit the couple.

The team identified a flat in the retirement housing scheme at Archery Court. However, before Dennis and Bernice could begin living a normal life, the flat required adaptations to help overcome their various disabilities.

The many new features included a refitted kitchen that provided safe and secure use of all the appliances and a walk-in shower.

Mr Houghton said, "When the van went up in smoke, so did our dreams of a new start in Eastbourne.

"It was a colossal blow that affected us badly. We are both blind and my wife is on weekly dialysis, so getting back on our feet seemed like a million miles away.

"It is only through the fantastic support that we have had from Eastbourne Homes that life is back on an even keel."

Despite their wretched start in Eastbourne, Dennis lost no time in establishing himself on many of the town's committees and forums that are looking to improve life in local communities for older people.

Jo Ellis, chief executive at Eastbourne Homes, said, "Amongst the various voluntary duties undertaken by Dennis, he is a regular and active member of our Older Persons Strategy Group.

"We have provided a clever system that gives him access to agendas, minutes, reports and our regular tenants' newsletter.

"Dennis never misses a meeting and has made a number of invaluable contributions on how to develop our services for people with disabilities."

In recognition of the remarkable efforts by both Dennis and Bernice, the couple were presented with the Eastbourne Resident of the Month Award.

The award is sponsored by Advanta Chartered Accountants and the Eastbourne Herald and was introduced to recognise people in local communities that are making a positive difference to the lives of others.

Mike Cottingham, director at Advanta, said, "When I heard how much Dennis and Bernice had been through and continue to cope with, I couldn't quite believe that Dennis remains so determined to play an active role in the community.

"Their story is an inspiration to everyone, especially those who are currently finding life tough and would benefit from the example this wonderful couple set for all of us."