Paul Hope Award
A special award is given each year for outstanding work and achievement in fulfilling Phab’s aims. This award is made annually, together with a bursary of £1000, and is in memory of the late Paul Hope, Club Services and Development Officer at Phab during the 1980’s and early 90’s.
2009 Winner – Gordon Dimmock, Brentwood Phab Club
Gordon has been involved with Phab in both Brentwood and across Essex for many years and has worked tirelessly to promote the Phab ideals. He joined originally as a part-time fieldworker but his commitment to Phab has always been far beyond any job title or role. He has been a key member and leader within his local Brentwood Phab clubs for both adults and juniors over the years. He has built strong friendships with many people within Phab in Essex and beyond and has always demonstrated his passion for the Phab aims of inclusion and working together to make life better.
As a volunteer, he has used his evident organisational skills to help clubs fundraise, stage events and recruit volunteers. As Secretary of Essex Phab he produced a regular newsletter for over 10 years keeping Essex clubs and others informed of events, news and club activities. He has organised numerous day trips, holidays and discos. He has helped individual members when necessary with for example transport and has driven the Phab minibus not just on Phab evenings or trips but also when needed on other occasions.
Gordon continues to play a very active role, particularly with Brentwood despite increased hearing difficulties and his many other commitments. Although we know he would not expect it, Gordon most certainly deserves recognition for his outstanding work in Phab over so many years.