'From Adur & Worthing Council'
A Shoreham-based artist who goes the extra mile to clean his local coastline and river has been honoured as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.
Dominic Burch has received a Community Hero Award for voluntarily giving his time to have a positive impact on the environment and using the harmful plastics he finds to create amazing works of art.
Following a call-out for nominations from Adur & Worthing Councils in the summer, the artist was put forward for the award by his proud wife Amy, the Neighbourhood Store in Shoreham, which supports the work of local creatives, and charity store SOLD (Shoreham Opportunities for Learning Differences).
The Community Hero Award was created by the Councils as a unique way to honour the Platinum Jubilee.
Dominic can often be found walking along Shoreham’s tranquil beach with his dog Luna, armed with a plastic bag to help clear harmful plastics off the shingle. Dominic then recycles these materials to create models of pop culture figures, animals and more.
The artist has been clearing bags of waste off the district’s beaches for more than five years, and does so not only to help the environment, but also to support his wellbeing and give back to his local community.
Dominic struggles with agoraphobia and severe social anxiety, but finds walking on the beach to be therapeutic and good for his mental health. He also loves to see people enjoying his artwork in local cafes and shops, where it helps to raise awareness on reducing plastic pollution.
In its nomination, Neighbourhood Store described Dominic as one of the kindest souls its team had ever met, and said the award would be the perfect thank you from Mother Nature and the community.
Dominic was unable to collect his awards in person from the Chairman of Adur District Council, Cllr Andy McGregor, but will shortly be receiving them in the post. He has been given a special jubilee pin, a royal mint Platinum Jubilee commemorative coin and an official certificate of thanks from the district.
Cllr McGregor, said: “It’s fantastic to give back to someone who has dedicated so much time towards caring for the environment and putting a smile on people’s faces through their incredible work.
“Dominic is clearly not just incredibly talented, but has a heart of gold - something which has been recognised by our residents and local businesses. I’d like to personally thank him for all the effort he’s put into his work over the last five years.”
Adur & Worthing Council
A big well done from us all Dom! You LEGEND
Em & Gary xx