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Unsung heroes are
honoured at the Pride in Medway awards

There was hardly a dry eye to be found as brave teenager Alec
Martin was named winner of the 11th Pride in Medway awards.

Courageous Alec, who has battled cancer three times, received a
standing ovation as he accepted his prize from Olympic gold
medallist Duncan Goodhew.

It was the high point of an emotional gala evening at the
Pilkington Building, Chatham Maritime, attended by about 35 unsung
heroes from all walks of life along with sponsors and VIP
guests.

Presenter Sangeeta Bharbra, from ITV Meridian, read out the
citations, telling stories of bravery, community service, charity
work and helping others.

All were amazing but the resounding cheer as Alec's name was
read out was proof that the judges had made the right choice.

The 14-year-old, who was described by Duncan as "exceptional"
has raised thousands of pounds for charity during his fight against
cancer.

He chooses charities that have helped him, such as the Starlight
Children's Foundation and Demelza Hospice Care, aiming to give
something back so other children can benefit from their
services.

Alec, who is a pupil at Brompton Academy in Gillingham, has
Asperger's syndrome and dyspraxia but is still taking early GCSEs
this year.

In the audience on Saturday night were Alec's proud parents Dan
and Karen, from Allhallows, and his younger brother Rick.

Karen said: "I am over the moon. He really deserved it, he has
had so much to cope with."

Before Alec was named as overall winner, five special sponsors'
awards were announced.

One went to young mum Donna Reeve, whose daughter Amelia died at
the age of three. Donna has pledged to change the windmills at
Medway Maritime Hospital that Amelia used to love and to raise
money in her child's memory.

Donna explained that she and husband Jon want to raise enough
for a caravan so sick youngsters and their families can enjoy a
holiday.

Choking back tears, she said she had been so moved by the fact
that children in hospital don't complain or moan but simply want to
have fun like others.

Other sponsors' awards went to:

Sarah Breeze and James Goldsmith, who saved the life of a
stranger after he had a heart attack at Hempstead Valley.

Barbara Kenny, 88, who has only just retired after running a tea
bar at Medway Court and raising thousands of pounds for
charity.

Medway Little Theatre Youth Company, for their powerful
anti-smoking drama.

Margit Baker, 78, who has given her life to dance, teaching
people of all ages.

Pride in Medway is sponsored by Medway Council, mhs homes, the
Medway Messenger, Southern Water, E.ON and the University of
Kent.

See Friday's Medway Messenger for more on the Pride in
Medway awards.