High Sheriff of West Sussex Awards 2023: James Whitmore names two individuals and ten organisations as his award winners

Elaine Hammond
By Elaine Hammond
Published 12th Apr 2023, 09:59 BST
Updated 14th Apr 2023, 14:28 BST
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James Whitmore, the immediate past High Sheriff of West Sussex, has named two individuals and ten organisations as his winners of the High Sheriff of West Sussex Awards 2023.

James said: “One of the privileges I had as High Sheriff was being able to give High Sheriff Awards to deserving individuals or organisations whom I had met during my year of Office. I decided to award two individuals and ten organisations.

"The two individual awards were for Mrs Pat Kirkham, representing the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association (SSAFA) in Sussex. Pat, with the help of a few volunteers, follows in her father’s footsteps and organises an annual concert to raise funds for this wonderful Armed Forces Charity. Organising anything accommodating numerous people is always a challenge and Pat wholly deserved an award for the time and effort she commits towards this annual event.

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"My second individual award went to Jeffery Garrard. Jeffery lives at Highdown Court in Worthing and was born with cerebral palsy but this has not stopped him spending most of his life helping others. The award was for decades of selfless fundraising and care in the community.

James Whitmore, High Sheriff of West Sussex 2022-23, presents Toni Harris, left, and Emma Biffi with the High Sheriff of West Sussex Award for Arun Youth Projects. Picture: S Robards SR2303302James Whitmore, High Sheriff of West Sussex 2022-23, presents Toni Harris, left, and Emma Biffi with the High Sheriff of West Sussex Award for Arun Youth Projects. Picture: S Robards SR2303302
James Whitmore, High Sheriff of West Sussex 2022-23, presents Toni Harris, left, and Emma Biffi with the High Sheriff of West Sussex Award for Arun Youth Projects. Picture: S Robards SR2303302

Meet the High Sheriff of West Sussex for 2023-24, former Chief Constable Andy Bliss

"I have been struck by the large number of people who selflessly volunteer in West Sussex. There is much enjoyment to be had by helping others but especially by helping young people and gently forming their future. The Scouts and Girl Guide movements do this very well and I was delighted to give awards to Sussex West Girl Guides, Sussex Central Girl Guides, Petworth & Pulborough Scouts and Girlguiding Petworth Division. The added value to young people who join these organisations and enjoy the numerous activities they host is immense.

"Two other organisations I gave awards to also work with young people and strive to improve their lives through different initiatives. Chichester Police Cadets do as the name suggests and is run by a team of four dedicated serving police officers and volunteers. Arun Youth Projects nurture numerous young people giving them opportunities they might not normally be exposed to which opens their eyes to different avenues of life.

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