Medal of the Order of the British Empire awarded to Worthing resident

The full investiture ceremony for Susan Ward was held at Worthing Town Hall and was witnessed by councillor Tom Wye, Deputy Lieutenant of West Sussex, Worthing mayor Michael Donin and Worthing mayoress Linda Williams, as well as a host of family, friends, neighbours and some of the young people she has been a foster mum to over the years.

Councillor Wye read out a citation from Her Majesty the Queen, which outlined Sue’s dedication to the Phoenix Youth Group, her work as a foster parent and her commitment to her community.

After being presented her Medal of the Order of the British Empire, Susan said: “Thank you everybody for coming. I couldn’t do what I do without you all and the volunteers that have supported us over the years.”

Alison Young, one of her friends, added: “Sue is one of my closest friends, I also run the West Durrington Phoenix Youth Group with her, and you could not hope to meet a better person. She is always there for everybody and everything she does is fabulous. This award is well deserved and a long time coming!”

Worthing Borough Council leader Daniel Humphreys said: “We are indebted to Susan Ward’s continued hard work, passion and commitment that has greatly benefited all of the young people who attend the West Durrington Phoenix Youth Group. We are extremely fortunate to have such vibrant, passionate people in Worthing who work so hard for others.”

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