Residents honoured for being good neighbours

Good neighbours have been honoured for making a difference in their communities.

Halton Housing Trust has recognised and rewarded those who have gone out of their way to support others in their neighbourhood with an award and high street vouchers.

Among the winners was 85-year-old George Waterworth who has been helping his neighbour since she suffered a stroke several years ago.

He provides a range of help, support and everyday chores such as going shopping, even though his own health has deteriorated and he needs bottled oxygen to help him breathe.

George, a retired lorry driver from Runcorn, said: “I just do these things as a favour to my neighbour; I didn’t expect anything like this.”

Also honoured was 11-year-old Elisha Harris, from Runcorn, who was recognised for helping out at her local youth club.

Andrew Shaw, 40 and from Widnes, is the former chair of Ditton West Residents’ Association and received the Community Award for his work with young people in the area.

The winner of the Taking a Stand Award was 78-year-old Edward Bowers, who stood up against anti-social behaviour in his community in Widnes by giving police information that led to the arrest of a drug dealer.

Noel Sharpe, Director of Customer Services at Halton Housing Trust, said: “These people are the true heroes of our communities and we felt it important to recognise their contribution. They prove that a sense of community spirit exists and that people are willing to look out for the more vulnerable or to stand up for what is right, often in the face of challenging circumstances or at some cost to themselves.”