Praised At No.10 - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Praised At No.10 – A CAMPAIGNER from Leigh was praised for his “unstinting commitment” to supporting Parkinson’s sufferers, during an event in Downing Street.

Praised At No.10 - A CAMPAIGNER from Leigh was praised for his “unstinting commitment” to supporting Parkinson’s sufferers, during an event in Downing Street.

A CAMPAIGNER from Leigh was praised for his “unstinting commitment” to supporting Parkinson’s sufferers, during an event in Downing Street.

Bob Mays met Sir Keir Starmer at a St George’s Day reception to recognise the efforts of people working to make the country a better place, in a wider celebration of English achievements.

Mr Mays was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 13 years ago, but has worked tirelessly, campaigning and undertaking community activities in Southend, in addition to raising £80,000 for research since.

He co-ordinates the Southend Parkinson’s Group, which meets every month at Kings Road Reform Church offering friendship and support to people with Parkinson’s, their families and carers.

The 69-year-old said: “When I first took it over there were about 12 people at the group and now it’s over 50. We hold lectures to raise awareness about the disease, we also have fitness training once per week with a trained physiotherapist.”

Mr Mays has worked with Southend Council to highlight buildings in blue to raise Parkinson’s awareness, and collaborate with his lifelong team Southend United.

Mr Mays said he was shocked to be invited to the glittering event: “I was contacted by our MP and he said that to recognise the work he was inviting me to Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister.

“It was quite a shock to be invited. We shook hands and he said ‘well done for all your hard work’.”

Mr Mays and his wife were accompanied by the MP for Leigh and Southend West, David Burton Sampson. The event was also attended by many celebrities, sports professionals and charity workers.

Mr Burton-Sampson said: “Southend Parkinson’s Group does such good work in helping the local community and sharing information, activities and advice.

“This was a fantastic opportunity to give something back to people who give so much on a day-to-day basis.”

Picture: Bob Mays, his wife and MP Mr. Burton-Sampson (Pic: David Burton-Sampson)

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