Albion in the Community and American Express celebrated the achievements of local volunteers and participants from their community partnership at the Amex last night.
The inaugural dinner and drinks reception rewarded the individuals and community groups that have been involved in a wide range of social initiatives, including healthy living awareness activities, fun days out for young disabled people and football coaching classes.
Over 200 guests, including local VIPs High Sheriff of East Sussex, Mrs Kathy Gore, and Deputy Lieutenant of East Sussex, Marion Shepherd, were greeted by the 'Good Old Sussex by the Sea Singing Seagulls Supporters Troupe' and a medley of popular songs from pupils of Balfour Juniors.
Juice FM's Laurence Elphick said, "We are proud patrons of AITC. It's a fantastic charity that works with a fantastic football club. The awards evening is a brilliant idea because it recognises the achievements of the people who give their time for such a great cause."
Albion boss Gus Poyet handed over a Disability Achievement Award to AITC apprentice Kieran Green, while Tony Bloom presented the International Personality Award to Naju Fernandes from Goa, India who overcame a barrier of inequality to set up a women's football programme in his area.
Amex stadium pitchside announcer Richard Reynolds was host for the evening and introduced a further five awards that were presented by Nuffield Health's Nick Bird and American Express' Breckon Jones, Ian Lundberg, Michael Edwards and Nigel Greenwood.
Albion director Derek Chapman added, "It's a fabulous occasion where AITC and American Express have come together to celebrate what they're doing together in the community. Moving forward, I see Albion in the Community becoming an integral part of the fabric within the city."
Chairman Tony Bloom concluded, "The first ever American Express/Albion in the Community awards dinner has gone brilliantly with a very special atmosphere. Our new stadium can really be a springboard for AITC to go on to help even more people in the community."
The evening ended with a disco where Gully took over the dancefloor and even grabbed a dance with Dick Knight!
