Sidney Fossey receives his award from Mayor Anjna Khurana [EM Fitzgerald]

AN aspiring firefighter was crowned the winner of the Ben Kinsella Award as Islington’s unsung heroes were celebrated at a glittering ceremony in the Assembly Hall on Tuesday evening.

The prestigious award, which recognises the community work of a young person, was handed out to Sidney Fossey for his dedication as a Fire Cadet. Having led fire safety workshops for younger children and supported cadet recruitment exercises over three years, Sidney said that he loved “serving the public”.

The Mayor and Sidney with those who received the Civic Awards at the Assembly Hall [EM Fitzgerald]

The 16-year-old added: “I am really appreciative of the award. I would 100 per cent encourage other young people to get involved with volunteering.”

The Mayor’s Civic Awards were also presented to members of the community who have made significant contributions to life in the borough.

Among those honoured was George Brade, a caretaker at Whittington Park Community Centre for more than 30 years. Mr Brade died last year but is remembered for his performances of steel-pan music across Islington, and his commitment to teaching children.

His daughter Diane accepted the award on his behalf.

She said: “I’m so grateful. Dad sadly passed away last year but he would have loved this. He played for people in nursing homes, he was committed, and he gave everything: heart, soul, body, mind, literally everything, so he would have been so delighted.

Sue Brownson [EM Fitzgerald]

“It’s such a jubilant occasion, this is for you, Dad.”

Trophies were also given to Michelle Akpata, Seyda Ozcan, and the Parent Empowerment Champions.

Meanwhile, Sue Brownson became the first ever recipient of the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Service to Islington. She was recognised for her dedication to supporting deaf and special needs children at Laycock Primary School for over 40 years.

Mayor Anjna Khurana said: “Islington is a borough built on unity, and I am proud to highlight the incredible work being done by our diverse communities.

“In times of adversity, it is our unsung heroes who truly embody the values of hope, solidarity, and resilience – inspiring us all.”