Chichester BID announces this year's Light Up Chichester local heroes
We are delighted to announce that this year's Light Up Chichester local heroes are Wendy Wheelan, a volunteer marshall for the city's Junior Parkrun, and seven-year-old Samuel SuperSam Bezants whose remarkable courage and positivity have inspired the local community.
Wendy and Samuel will have the honour of switching on Chichester's Christmas lights on Saturday 22 November at 5pm, marking the official start of Chichesters festive season.
Wendy, age 77, is a familiar and much-admired face at Priory Park every Sunday morning, where she volunteers at the free weekly Junior Parkrun for children aged 4 14. Rain or shine, Wendy can be found at her post from 8.15am, wearing her high-vis vest, welcoming families, keeping the youngsters safe, and encouraging them as they run or walk their 2k route around the park.
Wendy was nominated by her friend Barbara Brunsdon, who said: Wendy is always there, cheerful and encouraging, helping to ensure Junior Parkrun happens every week. She's a real role model and a true local hero.
On hearing the news, Wendy said: It's fantastic to have been nominated! I'm so excited to help switch on Chichester's Christmas lights this year and I can't wait to spot lots of the young runners I cheer on every Sunday at Parkrun.
Joining Wendy on stage will be seven-year-old Samuel Bezants, affectionately known as SuperSam. Described by his grandmother as the bravest, most incredible human, Samuel has spent the last three years undergoing intensive treatment for neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer. Despite missing much of normal school life, Samuel faces every challenge with resilience and rarely complains, supported by his loving family parents Tom and Heather, and brothers Finley and George.
On nominating her grandson, Jo Bezants said: He truly is an inspiration to everyone who meets him. His bravery, humour and strength shine through even on the hardest days. We are all so proud of him.
This year's Light Up Chichester competition received more than 35 nominations for individuals who have made a positive impact in the community. The winners were chosen by a judging panel made up of The Mayor of Chichester, Councillor Sean McHale, Chair of Chichester BID, Helen Marshall, CEO of Chichester BID, Natasha McLeod and Nicola Brown from Sussex law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter, who are supporting this year's Christmas in Chichester festivities.
Helen Marshall, Chair of Chichester BID, said: Each year, the local hero competition reveals the incredible kindness, courage and community spirit that makes Chichester such a special place. Wendy and Samuel truly embody those values, and we're thrilled to have them light up the city this Christmas.