News-Roman brings festive sparkle to County Hall

Roman Williams pressed the button to light up both the Christmas tree at County Hall and a nearby roundabout this week, helping to deliver festive cheer to everyone who passes by.

It comes as we and town and parish councils light up displays across the county - from Blackhall and Seaham on the east coast to Consett and Chester-le-Street in the north, Barnard Castle in the south and Crook in the west.

Cllr Joan Nicholson, our Chair, invited Roman to switch on the County Hall Christmas tree lights after hearing about the great courage he shows in coping with a chronic heart condition.

Roman, who lives in Fishburn and attends Sedgefield Primary School, was born with a rare condition called pulmonary atresia, which is a blockage in the blood flow from his heart to his lungs.

Roman underwent a heart transplant in December 2015, but there were complications with his kidneys which means he needs dialysis every night. Despite these challenges, he is a cheerful little boy with a cheeky sense of humour who loves computer games, Lego and Newcastle United Football Club. 

Bringing joy

Cllr Nicholson said: "Earlier this year Roman received a Brave Hearts of the North East award and I was deeply moved by his story and the courage he shows on a daily basis.

"He is such a special boy and we're delighted he has done us the honour of switching on our Christmas tree lights. I am sure the lights will bring joy to many people who work at and visit County Hall on the run up to Christmas."

A wonderful experience

Roman was joined by his mother Zoe Pickering, father Craig Williams, stepdad Ryan Asher, his twin brother Hunter, his younger brother Colt-Bear Williams, aged six, and younger sister Pixie-Rae Johns, aged three. Many other friends and family members also attended to cheer Roman on.

Zoe said: "Roman loves Christmas and he and his brothers and sister are very excited about it. Switching on the Christmas tree lights was a wonderful experience for Roman. He has been in the papers quite a lot over the years and sees himself as a little celebrity. We are very proud of him."