COUNCILLOR Yash Gupta has won a national award for his work in the community.
Labour councillor for Grays, Yash, was named “Community Champion of the Year” by the Local Government Information Unit.
Cllr Gupta was nominated by residents in Thurrock, along with more than 44,000 councillors in the UK.
Yash will receive his award in a special ceremony at the Arsenal Emirates Stadium tonight (Thursday).
Cllr Gupta said: “I’m delighted. I never thought i would win a national award.
“It is a great honour and my family are delighted.”
Yash founded the Thurrock Asian Association, and also works with the Thurrock Racial Unity Support Taskgroup.
He has also served on the management committees of Thurrock Open Door and Thurrock Citizens’ Advice Bureau.
In January 2006 Mr Gupta was awarded an MBE for services to the community in Essex, and enjoyed further praise after winning the highly prestigious international “Glory of India Award” for his achievements strengthening Indo-British relationships and promoting Community Cohesion.
