Hesketh Bank community hero Beverley D’Souza was ‘humbled’ by award

Sep 20 2012 by Tom Duffy, Ormskirk Advertiser

THIS week we profile former Community Heroes winner Beverley D’Souza who was recognised last year for her tireless work with Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline in Sefton.

Beverley, who lives in Hesketh Bank, was named individual of the year at last year’s glittering event at Formby Hall Golf Club.

Beverley, who describes herself as a retired grandmother, became involved with Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline in 2002.

Since then she has supervised annual respite trips for children from the region to Sefton.

Beverley, who is chairwoman of Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline in Sefton said: “ I became involved in the charity because I am so grateful that my children have all been healthy. I must have worked with 200 children over the years. Many of the young people who have taken part in the annual respite trips have had serious health problems, such as cancer and heart disease from living in a high radiation environment. And many of the young people also have other problems at home, such as economic hardship or family issues.

“Last year I was amazed to be nominated, and I was really impressed with the other nominees, from young people who had helped people in the street to pensioners. It was all so humbling.”

Your Heroes is the new name for our Community Heroes awards, in partnership with Scottish Power.

We want you to nominate the neighbours and friends who deserve recognition, either for their bravery or selfless devotion to good causes.

And the shortlisted candidates will be given a glittering night to remember at our exclusive Your Heroes awards celebration later in the year, in partnership with our sponsors Scottish Power.

So think of somebody who deserves their moment in the spotlight, and get them nominated!

Editor Andrew Edwards said: “These awards are a chance for you to give a moment of glory to the unsung heroes in your community. It can be somebody who has tackled a criminal, but equally it could be that person who does so much for their community without asking for anything in return.”