Churchill has recognised the remarkable contributions of over 60s in East Sussex as part of its first-ever Local Hero Awards, celebrating inspirational who are making a lasting difference in their communities.
Robert (Bob) Lewis, 87, from Eastbourne, has been crowned East Sussex’s Local Hero at a ceremony at Allingham Lodge on Southfields Road. Bob is the founder and Co-Chairman of the charity Medi Tech Trust, which since 2002 has donated vital equipment to Sussex hospitals, including Holmium and Thulium Laser Machines, a lithotripter in Eastbourne and contributions towards the Da Vinci Robot and Radiotherapy Unit, enabling cancer patients to receive treatment closer to home.
In recent years, Bob has led innovative community initiatives across East Sussex. Since 2019, he has organised yearly “Wish List” programmes, inviting local surgeries to request essential equipment to directly benefit patients. In 2024, Medi Tech Trust launched a recycling scheme for unused sealed medical consumables, preventing them from going to landfill and instead redistributing them to war zones, low-income countries, food banks and baby banks. Bob has also supported local charities and groups with donations ranging from PPE during the pandemic, to First Aid boxes, wheelchair ramps, and cleaning supplies.
Bob said of his win and what the £1,000 donation to Medi Tech Trust means to him: “I had no idea that I had been recommended for a Churchill Local Hero Award, so when my wife told me, that came as a wonderful surprise. I set up the Medi Tech Trust over 20 years ago as a way to do something positive and help those who need our support. I never expected it to grow into such a big part of my life, and I could never have done it without the support of our wonderful team of people. Thank you very much to you all, and to Churchill!”
Caroline Smith, also from Eastbourne, was Highly Commended in the awards. During the pandemic, Caroline set up a group to bring isolated people together online and in person, organising Zoom chats, coffee mornings, outings and music events. Despite battling cancer herself, she always puts others first, creating a lifeline of friendship and support for women living alone in Eastbourne. Caroline continues to inspire by encouraging her members to join in local activities and enjoy a variety of experiences.
Spencer J McCarthy, Chairman and CEO of Churchill Living, said: "The Local Hero Awards have highlighted the incredible contributions older people are making in communities across the country. Bob and Caroline, who were both named as two of the nation’s 500 Coronation Champions in 2023, exemplify how dedication, compassion, and energy can transform lives and places. We’re proud to celebrate their achievements and thank them for everything they do."
Churchill Living plans to make the Local Hero Awards an annual celebration of the UK’s over 60s who go above and beyond in their communities.