The work of a giant hearted and charity minded Brentwood man has been recognised and rewarded with a coveted New Year's Day Parade Honour.

The prize for 'someone who has done something beyond the call of duty' is a perfect end of year boost for Joe Browne and is also a morale lifter for his team to continue their community work into 2004.

Father of two, Joe, 62 was nominated for the honour by the Mayor of Redbridge, Vanessa Cole, after she visited the Cardinal Heenan Centre in Ilford which he is manager of.

The centre offers the community numerous courses ranging from English lessons, Irish dancing, a variety of martial arts and computer training.

It is also used by several different community groups including Brentwood Catholic Children's Society, Careline and Anxiety Care.

Joe, who has worked at the centre since 1991, said he was over the moon with the award which he said was for everyone who works at the centre.

He was presented with the honour during the New Year's Day Parade in London which was led by an open top bus with all the winners and every Mayor of the London boroughs.

Published Friday January 2, 2004

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