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Pride of Britain Award Winners 2003

Neighbour of The Year

June Smith

Despite being treated for cancer, June , 71, is a tower of strength

The age of 70 is a milestone - and usually a time when most people want to put their feet up.

Not June Smith. Even though she's 71 and being treated for cancer, she's still a tower of strength for her elderly neighbours.

Her duties include shopping for them, taking them to the doctor and picking up their prescriptions - and she never asks for anything in return.

Incredibly, the great grandmother from Fareham, Hants, does all this despite suffering from lymphoma cancer and while working as a part-time fruit picker.

She's also a fundraiser for the Friends Of Radiotherapy charity at St Mary's Hospital, Portsmouth.

June's 73-year-old sister and next-door neighbour, Chris Merritt, says: "I can't go out on my own because of my arthritis and I don't know where I'd be if it wasn't for June."

I was blown away by the whole thing when I first went. I am always amazed by the winers they are extraordinary people... - Sir Paul McCartney

 

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