Tributes for man who began popular project for the young

Michael Austin died recently from leukaemia having been the company secretary of the town's Number 18 Project from 1997.

Mr Austin's role saw him lead the talks with Arun District Council in 2002 to negotiate a 25-year lease for the building in Little High Street to ensure the survival of the project.

It includes an information shop for young people and a teenage drop-in bar

He did so much more as well. Number 18 Project chairman Tina Saunders said: "In addition, he was always on hand to offer support to the project by personally decorating or using his DIY skills for work on the building.

"He also used his contacts in the financial or construction world to ensure necessary repair work was done.

"Although he lived in Midhurst, he was often at the project to assist in any way he could. His answer to any problem was 'I'll sort it out' and he would. There was never anything too small or too big Mike would not tackle.

"People like him are rare and he deserved much praise for what he achieved.

"His memory will continue because the Number 18 project continues to be committed to his aims."

Mr Austin was a driving force in fundraising for the project. His skill and knowledge enabled it to gain significant grants from various organisations to expand its services to the young people from around Bognor.

Its aim is to benefit the personal and social welfare of 13 to 25-year-olds by establishing, maintaining and developing information, advice, support and counselling services in the Bognor area.

This is with the goal of improving their lives by promoting their physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The project is run in partnership with West Sussex and Arun councils.

Mr Austin died last month. His funeral at Worthing Crematorium was attended by more than 150 people.

He is survived by a widow, Sue, and son, Mark.

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