Awards for meeting needs of disabled
Businesses and individuals who champion the needs of disabled people have been celebrated in a special awards ceremony on Thursday.
West Norfolk Council's Opportunity Awards, now in their 18th year, recognise and reward those who go the extra mile to ensure those with disabilities have equal access to the opportunities and services on offer.
This year's winners included two caf owners, Norfolk Arena and a 15-year-old girl who has worked tirelessly for young carers. Each was presented with a certificate by West Norfolk Mayor Kathy Mellish.
Councillor David Harwood, chairman of the advisory committee for people with disabilities, which organised the event, said: "It is important that people and organisations are recognised for their efforts, over and above their statutory requirements, and for their contributions in making the lives of disabled people easier."
Mr Michael Beckett, of Gaywood Clock Caf, and Mr Akif Kaya, of the Silver Spoon Caf in Lynn's Norfolk Street, were both presented with awards after they improved disabled access to their businesses.
While Mr Keith Chapman, co-promoter of Lynn Stars Speedway Team, collected an award for changes made to the arena, where a wheelchair-friendly turnstile and a viewing area for disabled people have been introduced.
The youngest winner of the night was Lynn youngster Poppy Bunting (15), who was celebrating alongside Pastor Paul Randerson, of the town's Christian Fellowship.
Poppy was determined to help improve the situation of young carers in the area and the cause was further helped by a fundraising concert organised by Mr Randerson.
The council's leisure and public space department also received recognition for the changes it made to this year's Great East Anglia Run, held in May.
A change in its route made it was accessible to everyone and meant British para Olympian champion Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson was able to enter the race and help raise its profile.
Councillor Elizabeth Nockolds, cabinet member for sports, arts and open spaces, said: "The race was an enormous success and we were privileged to have such a high-profile athlete involved. It is great to have everyone's efforts recognised in this way."
The ceremony was held at Lynn council offices, in Chapel Street, on Tuesday.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
