On March 28, Colonel Anthony Kimber received recognition from Rishi Sunak at Number 10 Downing Street for his services to the community of Rye and district.
He was among those from across the country invited to a reception at Downing Street. The “community champions” programme was created to celebrate community members who volunteer to promote health and wellbeing or improve conditions in their local community.
Anthony explained: “It was an unexpected recognition which came completely out of the blue. Initially I thought it was a scam, as the email from Number 10 was just one line! When I checked, I was assured that it was genuine!
“Having worked on three occasions in MOD Whitehall, I have visited most buildings there but never Number 10.
“The reception was for 'community champions'. People came from all over UK and all had made a voluntary contribution in their communities. In my case it was my work with the Covid vaccination centre, neighbourhood plan, Homes for Ukraine, the RBL and Friends of St Mary’s.
“All the guests were hosted by their MPs. In my case Sally-Ann Hart was on hand. One or two MPs I met remarked that they had never been inside Number 10 before. We all went up the famous staircase to a reception in the first floor rooms of Number 10, and afterwards we had photographs taken and a short greeting from the PM. Whilst inside, my wife Elizabeth was invited into the forecourt by the armed police, where we were photographed together in front of the famous door.”
