Sompting man transforms neighbourhood during lockdown and wins award for his efforts

Adrian Foote, 31, has learning difficulties and attended Ferring Country Centre until lockdown began.

Instead, he channelled his energy into mowing the grass, edging the verges, cutting back plants and cleaning the gutters in his neighbourhood, including Langdale Close and Coniston Close.

In recognition of his efforts, Tim Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, presented him with a Coronavirus Community Champions Award on Friday, at a handover ceremony attended by the chairman of Adur District Council, Andy McGregor, and a large crowd of proud neighbours.

Tim said: “The Foote family have done a fantastic job in taking a pride in their local community and Adrian has worked tirelessly to mow and tidy up all the local verges and gutters.”

He added: “At a time when local councils are under a lot of pressure and cannot do everything this is a great example of local people stepping up to help out and partnering with Adur Council who provided collection sacks and took away the debris.

“It would be good if this could act as a model for more partnership work between residents and the local council making it easier for people to spruce up their communities.”

When Adrian could not go to Ferring Country Centre due to the pandemic, social Services and West Sussex County Council agreed to let him cut the grass where he lives. Supported by his brother and part time carer Kevin 41, Adrian and their dad Tony, 66, started sprucing up the area. Tony said: “The residents have shown amazing appreciation with heartfelt thanks and cold drinks especially through the recent heatwave.”

Adrian’s hard work has reignited the community spirit, with Peter Godfrey repainting the Kendal Road sign and another nameless good samaritan removing, repainting and replacing two others.

Tony added: “Adrian has been seen everyday safely mowing with a cordless mower and strummer, talking at a social distance to our many supporters thankful for the standards achieved in this neighbourhood.”

Tim said he would try to source some additional batteries for his mower to ‘make his job easier’.

Adrian’s neighbour Monica Lower thanked Adrian and his family for their efforts. She said: “We as residents have never seen the place look so smart and cared for.

“It’s an absolute credit to these boys’ parents and in particular their dad who has been clearing it with them.”

She added: “I can with my hand on my heart say they are the talk of our area and are appreciated by everyone.”