Everybody Needs Good Neighbours!
The winners of this year's Good Neighbour Awards
On Valentine's Day, six local residents received recognition for their good deeds at the 2008 Good Neighbour Awards.
The competition was open to residents of six major social landlords across Poole; Poole Housing Partnership (PHP), East Dorset Housing Association, Knightstone, Raglan, Swaythling and Western Challenge.
Residents were asked to nominated their neighbours for their outstanding contributions to their neighbours and community. People could submit to two categories; one for the over 60's and one for under 60's.
The ceremony took place at the Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole, and the top prize winners in both age categories were PHP residents!
In the over 60's category, the first prize went to John Chimes (PHP) who collected £100. Jenny Martin (Western Challenge) took second prize (£75) and Peter Greatbatch (PHP) won third prize (£50).
In the under 60's category, the first prize winner was Julie Bagwell (PHP) who won £100. Tracey Beattie (Swaythling) took second prize (£75) and Katherine Maskelyne (East Dorset) won third prize (£50).
Over 60's first prize winner, John Chimes was nominated by his neighbour, Mrs Bryant (95). She said, "John has been my neighbour for 10 years. He empties my bins for me, helps me get up in the morning, makes me cups of tea and even sorts me out a hot water bottle."
Mr Chimes received a 'thank you' gift at Christmas from Mrs Bryant's family, to thank him for the support he gives her.
Julie Bagwell, who took first place in the under 60's category, was nominated by her neighbour Robert Penney, for the work she's done as a local tenant representative for PHP.
Robert said, "PHP have been replacing our kitchens, and Julie has kept us all in the loop about the work being done in the neighbourhood. She helped us see the 'bigger picture' and I think she helped to stop a lot of people worrying about it all!"
The winners were presented with their prizes and certificates by Adrian Crook, Area Manager of Dorset Fire & Rescue, who is Vice-Chair of the Poole Safe Together Partnership.
Their nominators also received a certificate of commendation.