Community champion Matt Bromley has been named resident of the year at the Kent Housing Group Excellence Awards.

The AmicusHorizon resident beat off competition from across the county to receive the honour at Oakwood House, Maidstone.

The award recognises a resident who works hard to improve services or has contributed to initiatives to enhance their community.

Mr Bromley holds numerous roles with AmicusHorizon, including chairman of the Kent Gateway Area Panel, which scrutinises and monitors the housing association’s performance and service, sets local priorities and influences decisions.

Speaking after the ceremony, he said: “I’m very proud to have won the award but feel very humble, too.

“I was saying beforehand that it was just nice to be nominated. So when they called my name out it was a shock and a great feeling.”

The 46-year-old, of Queensway, Sheerness, also runs a disability football team for young people, is a member of the Isle of Sheppey Round Table and hosts a radio programme on Sheppey FM where he raises subjects such as mental health and environmental issues.

Kerry Newbury, head of area for Kent Gateway at AmicusHorizon, said: “Matt has a vibrant personality and an amazing, positive outlook.

“He has an abundance of ideas, endless enthusiasm and a real passion and commitment to making a difference in his community.”

Tracey Kerly, head of community and housing at Ashford council, and one of the judges, said: “The assessment panel were blown away by Matt’s enthusiasm, passion and commitment, together with the diversity of activities he is involved in.”