Volunteer thanks patients for support after finishing runner-up at health awards

Eric Compton, the chairman of Breath Easy Portsmouth, came second in The News’ Best of Health awards category for Unsung Hero in a ceremony at Portsmouth Guildhall earlier this month.

The volunteer was the winner of the award at last year’s ceremony and declared his surprise to be nominated in the category for the second year running.

He told The News: ‘I was very, very pleased to be nominated once more and to be the runner-up in such a strong category.

‘I didn’t realise at first that I’d been nominated, but I was delighted to receive enough votes to make the list.’

Breathe Easy Portsmouth is a support group which is given help by the British Lung Foundation.

Eric meets with those that struggles with breathing problems.

He said of his role: ‘Sitting down and interacting with patients really inspires me as it is all about helping them get through it.’

A nominee described Eric as ‘perfect example of an unsung hero’.

They said: ‘He works hard and remains dedicated to the Breathe Easy group ensuring they have informative meetings and advice is always available.’

The 68-year-old from Cosham was pipped to the post by Lesley McGuiness, health care support worker at Amulree Assessment Centre in St Mary’s Hospital in Milton.

Ms McGuiness cried tears of joy when she picked up the award.