YC adult award candidate: Tyddyn Bach's Philip Kearton-Smith

Sep 5 2008 By Steve Stratford

Philip Kearton-Smith

PHILIP Kearton-Smith has been hailed a champion by readers for his dedicated work at Tyddyn Bach HIV/Aids respite centre in Penmaenmawr.

Staci Burnham praised Philip’s tireless efforts, saying: "Philip dedicates his whole life to the welfare of everyone who walks through his doors.

"He is a human dynamo, putting other’s needs before his own as he helps restore confidence, emotional and physical wellbeing and self-worth to all at Tyddyn Bach affected by HIV/Aids."

Sally Drury from Penmaenmawr hailed Philip a hero too: "His time, energy and often his own money are all given unstintingly. He is a most worthy champion whose life is devoted to a most worthy cause."

Sharon Boonham believes that "Tyddyn Bach would not exist if it were not for Philip Kearton-Smith".

David Emmins told the Weekly News: "Philip is a very kind, helpful, thoughtful and generous person. He really deserves an award for all that he has done and continues to do for others."

Philip Kearton-Smith was honoured to be praised by Weekly News readers.

"It is really marvellous to be recognised but I’m sure there are a lot of people who are more worthy than me!" he said.

"Working at Tyddyn Bach is more of a vocation than a job and I enjoy it immensely. We are here to support people with HIV/Aids away from a clinical environment and aim to break down the stigma surrounding the illness. Without my small, dedicated team of volunteers, I couldn’t do my job."