THE usually unsung people who quietly help make Hampshire a better place have been hailed by the county council.
Around 40 people were recognised for their contribution to their local community at the council’s Celebrating Good Neighbour Awards in the Great Hall, Winchester, now in their 11th year.
Residents were encouraged to nominate people who they believe make a real difference to other people’s lives and to their communities.
Nominees included people who have difficulties and suffer from ill health themselves, but still find time to take neighbours to medical appointments, cook meals, do gardening or DIY, or call in for a chat with lonely or house-bound neighbours.
Local groups of volunteers were nominated for the clubs and activities they organise.
The awards were created by Hampshire County Council in partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, Brendoncare Club Hampshire, Carers Together, the Good Neighbours Support Service and the Royal Voluntary Service (formerly) WRVS.
The individual winners:
The individual winners:
Jean Axford
Gren Bailey
Penny Freeman
Guy Gould
Man Gurung
Sheila Hayden
John Leathes
Peter Marchment
Hannah Miles
Steve Packham
Christine Vallender
Yvonne Waters
Terry Whitehead
Stuart Cross
Laurie Cureton (represented by Mary Cureton)
Grahame Grimshaw
Eileen Grinter
Adrian Harper
Hazel Hatton
Alison Thomas
Carol Watson
Group winners
Janifer Critchell and Sandra Day (Weeke Friendship Club)
Ian Bray and Yvonne North (Winchester Live at Home Scheme)
Jill Hewitt and Daphne Youngs (Rowlands Castle Good Neighbours)
Gary Oakley and Carola Weldon (Villagers of Farringdon)
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