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Terminally ill regional daily writer wins award for services to journalism

Gary Burgess 1A terminally ill regional daily columnist has won a civic honour for his services to journalism.

Gary Burgess, who writes for the Jersey Evening Post, has been awarded the Silver Seal by Bailiff of Jersey Timothy Le Cocq.

The special accolade is often presented to politicians, diplomats and members of the community in a particular field on the island.

The award reflects Gary’s “contribution to island life and the profession of journalism” after he recently announced he was stepping back from his media work to focus on his health.

Former ITV journalist Gary, pictured, who received a terminal cancer diagnosis last year, told the JEP: “I am just honoured beyond words to receive this, especially after such a strange 18 months.

“I was nervous going into it, as I am used to being the one holding the microphone, but to be invited to such a special occasion – the word gratitude doesn’t quite cover it.”

He added: “I’m still trying to get my head into retirement, but to set the seal on my career with a Silver Seal is just perfect and I couldn’t have written it better myself.”