latest news

Wyke resident Steve Pickles has been named the 2006 Neighbour from Heaven for his tireless community work.

 

Each year, South Bradford Community Housing Trust (CHT) invite their tenants to nominate special people they know who go out of their way to help others.

 

Over 40 nominations came in highlighting the contribution of special people of all ages in South Bradford.

 

Steve organises trips out, coffee mornings, lunches, bingo sessions and more for residents on the Wycoller estate.  In Nov 2004, he set up the Wynot Residents Group almost single handed to bring people together and improve life in the area. Many of the activities are run from the Wynot community shop on Wycoller Road. Steve also helps keep the estate tidy and make it look more attractive.

 

Steve was nominated for the award by 12 residents – more than any other nominees for this year’ award.

 

Zabair Rasul, Head of Operations at South Bradford CHT presented Steve with an engraved trophy and £100 worth of shopping vouchers at the Neighbour from Heaven awards night at the Trust’s office in Wibsey on 14 Dec 

 

This year for the first time two runners-up prizes were presented. These went to Jean Bolton from Buttershaw – who won the 2005 Neighbour from Heaven title – and Billy Gustell who is also a member of the Wynot Residents Group.

 

Jean goes out of her way to help neighbours and elderly residents including going shopping for them, taking neighbours dogs for walks and even putting out their wheelie bins for collection. Billy helps in the Wynot shop including running the bingo sessions for residents and also helps residents with odd jobs and running errands.

 

Jean and Billy each received a Christmas Hamper and certificates.

 

Eight more people received nominations and they will each receive certificates in recognition of their commitment to helping people in their neighbourhoods.

more

 

Zabair Rasul from South Bradford Community Housing Trust said: “As a caring organisation we are keen to celebrate the wonderful contribution of ‘local heroes’ in South Bradford and this year’s Neighbour from Heaven award has proved more popular than ever.                                                                                                                                

 

“Choosing one winner was extremely difficult from so many deserving nominations. My congratulations to Steve on this award along with Jean, Billy and everyone who has taken part.

 

“These awards show what a special place South Bradford is to live. Each person nominated demonstrates the strong community spirit there is within our communities.”