Charity stalwarts awarded highest honour

Gavin Bestford was chairman of the North East Autism Society during a major growth programme

The outgoing head of an autism charity and a man devoted to providing activities for young people have received County Durham's highest civic honour.

The Chairman's Medal was awarded to Gavin Bestford, former chair of the North East Autism Society (NEAS), and Simon Healey, of the Durham Association of Boys and Girls Clubs.

Making the presentation, Durham County Council’s Chair Joan Nicholson said they had displayed "unwavering commitment" to their causes.

“Their communities are lucky to have them both and I would like to thank them for their care and outstanding work.”

Mr Bestford, 73, has an autistic son and became chair of the North East Autism Society (NEAS) in 2005 when it had one school, an adult service, some care homes for adults and children and employed about 250 people.

Today it has four schools, a college, skills centre, social and vocational units and a multitude of residential care and supported living homes, with a staff of 1,200.

NEAS carries out family outreach work, provides short breaks for families and arranges work placements and routes into work for autistic and neurodivergent people.

Simon Healey "never misses" activities run by the Durham Association of Boys and Girls Clubs

Simon Healey was honoured for the commitment in his spare time to creating memorable opportunities through the Durham Association of Boys and Girls Clubs.

It provides sport and recreational activities including athletics, football, table tennis and cross county competitions, as well as residentials and away days.

Councillor Nicolson was told Mr Healy never misses an activity hosted by the charity, ensuring that clubs have arrived safety.