Peacehaven: Town pays tribute to unsung heroes

The first went to Michael Burnage who has, for the last four years, put on a Christmas lights extravaganza outside his home to raise money for charity, despite crippling ill health.

Michael, 43, of Malines Avenue, was forced to give up work at the age of 33 when he was diagnosed with an incurable kidney ailment. The illness seriously disables him and makes simple daily tasks a hurdle.

His wife Fleur, who nominated him for the award, said: He suffers from a severe lack of energy and is in constant pain, but every night for three or four weeks each year he insists on standing outside the house dressed up as Santa to make the children smile.

His determination to put on a good display drives him through the pain and despair.

Last year s light display included popular children s characters such as Postman Pat and Bob the Builder. Michael and his family were able to raise 3,500 forBrighton Children s Hospital from visitors donations.

The second award was won by Sheila Chalmers who is co-ordinator of Age Concern Peacehaven at Kempton House.

Sheila works extensively with the elderly in Peacehaven and with many church groups in the town, running coffee mornings, visiting the sick in hospital and organising days out and holidays for Age Concern members.

Chairman of Age Concern Peacehaven, Helen Livings, said: I m absolutely delighted that Sheila has won this award. She does absolutely everything she possibly can.

Just recently she s been answering a lot of telephone calls that would probably normally go to Social Services.

Published: 7.6.01 Sussex Newspapers Ltd