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)