Hailsham Hero Community Award Recipient Praised

Julie Coates, manager of the Hailsham Foodbank project, has been recognised as a “Hailsham hero” for her dedication to local community life and passion to help those in need.

Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman presented Mrs Coates with the Hailsham Hero Community Award at the Annual Town Meeting held at the Hailsham Civic Community Hall yesterday evening [10 April].

Mrs Coates, a resident of Hailsham for 14 years, currently manages the local Foodbank on behalf of the Crosslink Trust, which provides emergency food to people in crisis who are referred to them by the caring agencies. All food is donated by the community.

The Hailsham Hero Community 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 has gone above and beyond what is expected of them to make things happen.

Town Clerk John Harrison said it is important that Hailsham’s “unsung heroes” are able to be acknowledged and given formal recognition: “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.”

“Foodbank staff and volunteers give so much of their time week in week out providing emergency help to around 2,000 people a year in Hailsham. I would like to personally congratulate Julie, the recipient of this year’s award. Well done!”

Julie Coates commented: “I’m grateful to have been chosen as this year’s recipient of the Award and accept the accolade on behalf of all the people of Hailsham who support our local Foodbank.”