Ex-soldier given first hero award

Mike Weller, Chairman of the Hailsham branch of the Royal British Legion, has been recognised for his dedication to life in the community and his enthusiasm and passion for helping others.
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Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman presented Mr Weller with the inaugural Hailsham Hero Award at the Annual Town Meeting last week (Tuesday, April 19).

Mr Weller, 79, served in the Armed Forces in Malaya and Borneo from 1954 to 1966 and has been a member of the Royal British Legion for more than 30 years.

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He has served as Chairman of the Hailsham Branch for the past six years and organised many fundraising activities and events for the RBL Poppy Appeal.

Mr Weller was nominated for the award by a panel of town councillors and residents and was among a number of equally deserving people nominated.

The award was set up by the town council to recognise those people who have achieved great things for the local community, committed a single act of bravery, heroism or selflessness, or have gone above and beyond what is expected of them to make things happen.

Cllr Coltman said it was important the town’s ‘unsung heroes’ are able to be acknowledged and given formal recognition.

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He said: “This award is a fantastic way to commend and celebrate all those individuals who selflessly work throughout the year to help others in the community.

“It was good to see so many names put forward for the award and I would like to personally congratulate all who were nominated and, of course, Mike Weller the recipient. Well done.”

Mr Weller said: “I’m honoured to be given the Hailsham Hero Award, considering the other nominees were very worthwhile recipients of the award too. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank those who nominated me and remind people to donate money to the Poppy Appeal.”

Councillor Paul Holbrook, a member of the judging panel, said: “There are so many people in Hailsham who work tirelessly to improve their local community and provide opportunities for others.

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“The Hailsham Hero Award is all about celebrating their success, the role they play in helping to make our town a great place to live, learn and work and saying a big thank you from us.”

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