WHEN Alan Beaver was born his parents were told he would not make it past his 30th birthday.

They were also told his genetic disorder Down’s Syndrome would leave him ineducable.

How wrong those doctors were.

Alan sadly died aged 58 but he led an active life and was always keen to give back.

Little did doctors know he would have a profound impact on the lives of those around him.

His selfless ways earned him a community award from East Donyland Parish Council which has been awarded posthumously six months after his death.

The award recognised Alan’s contribution to the village of Rowhedge, where he lived and volunteered at Rowhedge Under Fives Pre-School and two toddler groups.

He also helped out at annual events such as the Strawberry Fayre and was an active member of the Rowhedge carpet bowls club.

Alan’s sisters Lorraine Manford and Clare Bush said their brother was always encouraged to live his dreams.

They said: “Moving to Colchester in 1962 our parents made things happen ensuring Alan was doing the same things as other children his age.

“He attended the Stanway playgroup which mum helped evolve and the cubs and scouts where both mum and dad were leaders.

“In 1965, children with disabilities came under social care and were not considered under education. He was unable to go to school until he was seven despite being literate and numerate.

“As an adult Alan fought to lead an ordinary life and moving away from home was part of this.

“He struggled in different types of accommodation and persevered until, at 45-years-old, he moved into his own flat in Rowhedge.

“Here he led the independent life he dreamed of with minimal support.”

Once in Rowhedge he stayed involved with People First, an organisation promoting self-advocacy for people with learning disabilities.

He was also an elected member of the Essex People’s Parliament. He had been voted in on the strength of his mission to champion people with disabilities and promote inclusion.

Alan’s Christian faith was important to him, he was an active member of the Rowhedge Mariners Fellowship and was renowned for his loud and enthusiastic Hallelujahs.

Throughout his life he overcame many serious medical conditions and in his mid 50s contracted dementia.

He needed full-time care which was provided by dedicated carers known as the A-Team who made sure he remained a part of village life.

His sisters said: “Alan had great strength and truly believed he could do anything.

“He lived his life and had many adventures and experiences. With a little help along the way from his family, friends, carers and his faith, this determined man achieved his aims.

“Al generally and genuinely brought a smile to the faces of all those who encountered him.”

His sisters thanked all those who played a part in helping Alan fulfill his dream.