Inspirations to everyone - our citizens of the year are named

A standing ovation from the packed town hall audience recognised the outstanding contribution to the community made by these selfless volunteers, who had spent many hours raising funds for charities or caring for the sick and lonely.

The Citizen of the Year is 79-year-old Margaret Kite, of Kenilworth, a lady of amazing energy who has dedicated her retirement years to raising thousands of pounds for local charities. She was to be found the morning after the night before with her collecting tin at M&S!

Nominated for Citizen of the Year five times, Margaret, a shocked but surprised winner, said: “I have not come back to earth yet. I am so proud. I was shocked when told I was a finalist by the Courier. To be nominated was such an honour, but me winning... it is just unbelievable.”

The judges were told by one sponsor: “Miss Kite is the most selfless person I have ever met. She whistles away cheerfully whatever the weather. She is happy because she raises thousands of pounds for many charities, spending days at a time, not just here but in other towns as well.”

Miss Kite is often seen still collecting money on the bus home. “Every penny put in my box helps. This award is for givers as well,” she said.

Young Citizen of the Year is 11-year-old Leah Brassington, also of Kenilworth, who has no real leisure time of her own. She helps her single mum look after her severely autistic brother, while in between times helps young carers in similar circumstances while attending school.

Leah was so overcome by her award, she was in tears.

Her mother, Imelda, spoke for her: “She spends nearly all her time looking after her brother Liam (ten), who has severe autism. Since my partner left, she has become very special to us both. She uses sign language to communicate with Liam, which helps him so much. I am not so good at it so she talks for both of us.

“This award has given Leah a tremendous boost. She rarely gets out and just coming here tonight was a real treat for her. Part of her prize, the stay at Hellidon Lakes, will be great as Liam has some respite care coming up. She deserves the break. I am so proud of her.”

Matt Deakin, of the Young Carers Project, commented “Leah always has a smile on her face and is always the first to welcome other young carers because from an early age, she knows that being there for someone and putting their needs first is just part of life.”

All the finalists were of a very high quality and the judges had great difficulty in selecting the winners. Congratulations to them all. They were: Adults - Dora Stoddard; Chris Philpott; Johnathan Shaw; Daniel Browne; Margaret Moore and Chris Johnson; Barbara Barnacle. Young Finalists: Alex Luciano and George Oxley.