Local community champion receives special certificate of merit from Havering Police.

“This initiative was a great success and it would not have happened if it was not for the hard work of Jan who dedicates her free time for the benefit of the wider community – she is a true community champion”-Sergeant Ruane.

Harold Hill has no finer local champion than former Gooshays councillor Jan Sargent. Jan is a very well known and much loved local hero who is still serving her community everyday.

Last month, Jan was awarded a special certificate of merit by Havering police for her outstanding community work across the area. She was put forward by local officer Sergeant Ruane as a way of recognising all her long standing work across the Harold Hill area.

Sergeant Ruane told the Havering Daily:

“Jan Sargent  was put forward for recognition for the work that she has done within the Harold Hill Area.  Following the arrest of 7 youths within the area where a cache of knives and swords were recovered it was clear that a way to improve the links between the Police and young people needed to be found. Jan linked in with the local Safer Neighbourhood Team and was interested to try and increase positive engagements between the Police and the local Community.  She liaised with young people within the area of Central Park and asked them what could be done to improve things.  From this the United with Basketball Initiative was developed.  She found that there was an interest in basketball and that this was something that the local police team could assist with.  Funding was gained and Jan assisted in identifying Sports Companies and planning the sessions.  Jan also helped to promote the sessions on social  media and  attended every session and would walk around the park and encourage people to join in.  Over the 4 sessions 144 people took part.  The last session had 34 Children at the Under 14s and 11 at the Over 14s.  10 trophies and other prizes were handed out by Jan  – so lots of kids who did not have a ball – have one now.  Two Children were looking to sign up for BAD Thunder and we also had 2 residents interested to sign up to being ward panel members.  Approximately 26 Parents attended the Crime Prevention Stall.

 “This initiative was a great success and it would not have happened if it was not for the hard work of Jan – who dedicates her free time for the benefit of the wider community – she is a true community champion. 

 Jan has also served the community for years by being part of the Gooshays Ward Panel and works everyday with Deer Aid, assisting with local wildlife.  She has been a key figure in events such as the Christmas Light switch on along with numerous other events and initiatives over the years.

Well done Jan, you have served your community for years and your love and dedication to our wildlife has saved countless lives.

#communityhero

Jan Sargent with Sergeant Ruane.

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