A YOUNG carer named as the Hero of Hillingdon 2011 has scooped a national award.
Eleven year-old Kane Thomas was honoured at the Black Youth Achievement (BYA) awards, held on November 19, at the Jury’s Inn Hotel in Croydon – one of the areas worst hit by the London riots.
The ceremony was attended by prominent British Afro-Caribbean figures in business, publishing and entertainment, and recognised young black people making positive contributions to society and challenging negative stereotypes.
He was commended for looking after his mum, Roma, and taking on the household chores at their home in Freemans Lane, Hayes, after she suffered from two small strokes caused by the condition Bell’s Palsy.
Kane’s good deeds were first brought to public attention in July at the Local Hero Awards, supported by the Gazette and Uxbridge College,when he won our Star Carer award and beat other category winners to scoop the overall prize.
Mrs Thomas said of her son’s latest achievements: “He is a very happy boy, and I am so proud of him. There was a high calibre of young black people who were nominated, and it is nice that he has been recognised in his own community. It was a very positive event.
“I want to thank Kane’s godparents for all their support.”
Kay Oldroyd, founder and director of BYA, said the ceremony had been ‘a wonderful celebration’.
“It’s really important to see the positive side of youth and all the good things that they do,” she said.
Kane now attends Douay Martyrs School in Ickenham, and continues to excel at a range of sports.
He is a keen swimmer, and recently got a black belt in tae kwon do. He has also taken up rugby this year, and his power and pace has already attracted the attention of local Scouts.
