02/12/19
Last week, Bury saw the return of Six Town Housing’s annual Community Heroes awards ceremony, honouring exceptional people who make an impact within local neighbourhoods.
Over 100 people attended the event, held at the Lancashire Fusiliers Museum in Bury on Thursday 28th November, to support those who had been shortlisted for an award.
The Community Heroes awards categories for this year included Best Community Project, Super 60+, Young Superstar, Superhero of the year, Rising Star, Superstar Supporter and Community Rock. The awards celebrate those who live or volunteer within neighbourhoods managed by Six Town Housing on behalf of Bury Council, showcasing amazing neighbours, community group projects and volunteers of Tenant and Resident Associations (TRAs).
This was the second year the awards supported the #WeBenefitBury campaign, a local tenant-led movement aimed to challenge and end negative stereotyping of those living in social housing. Those attending had the chance to share their own options on the subject, which will be later shared on Six Town Housing’s social media.
The Superhero of the Year category was awarded to Joanne Warburton, who arranges activities for young people at Brandlesome Community Centre. The Young Superstar award went to Joshua Lyon, a young boy who volunteers at Victoria Youth Club in Whitefield looking after younger children and getting involved with the community allotment.
Chesham Fold TRA’s Baby Bank in Bury, which offers donated items to new parents who are unable to afford items such as prams, clothing and baby baths, picked up the award for Best Community project.
John Merrick, Director of Neighbourhoods at Six Town Housing, said, “We run these awards to celebrate and highlight the amazing contributions made by our tenants within their neighbourhoods. Their efforts often get overlooked so this event is dedicated to honouring those hard working people who care so much about the community they live in.”
Winners
Best Community Project - Chesham Fold Baby Bank
They offer items such as prams, nappies and baby baths to mothers who are having financial difficulties.
Super 60+ - Marlene Dawson
Involved with the Victoria committee, helping out at the allotment and youth club.
Young Superstar - Joshua Lyon
Volunteers at the Victoria Youth Club, helping out with the allotment and youth club activities.
Superhero Of The Year - Joanne Warburton
Helpful and supportive of the local residents and is involved in the Brandleshome Community Centre, organising activities for the young people there.
Rising Star - Top O’ Th’ Fields Tenants and Residents Association
They run coffee mornings and other activities for the residents, fighting social isolation.
Superstar Supporter - Jim Millington
At 80 years old, he helps neighbours with their bins, shopping and anything else they might struggle with.
Community Rock - Shaun Hillam
Supports with all activities on the Chapelfield estate like gardening and community clean ups.
