The Countess of Wessex is to attend the Essex Chronicle's Essex Achievement Awards evening next month.

It was announced this week that the Countess will help present the awards at the event on October 15. The Achievement Awards, launched 11 years ago, were inspired by health campaigner Susie Cornell.

The scheme highlights the achievements of adults and children who set an inspiring example to others through their courage, bravery and dedication.

Chronicle editor Stuart Rawlins said: "The awards evening is always a special occasion and the attendance of the Countess of Wessex will make it even more prestigious for the nominees and all of our supporters."

Nominations for the award categories, Achievement Over Adversity, Local Hero, Community Champion and a new Carer's Award, closed this week.

This year's awards ceremony is being held at Stock Brook Country Club in Billericay when major cash prizes and trophies will be presented.

Published Friday September 10, 2004

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