A very caring man

“He is a very caring man who helps everyone in our community.”

That’s what John Wilson’s neighbours think about him and why he has won a housing association’s annual good neighbour of the year award.

Mr Wilson was the overwhelming choice of the judges who voted in the Durham Aged Mineworkers’ Homes Association (DAMHA) 2023 Good Neighbour of the Year competition.

This was based on the nominations he received from several of his neighbours in Ryehill Gardens, Hartlepool.

They included Joycelan Gascoigne, who said: “John does everyone’s gardens here without reward, he also cooks meals and gives lots away and can be relied on for doing odd jobs.

“He is the best of neighbours and a very kind, reliable man.”

Michael and Linda Pitt said: “He is a very caring man who helps everyone in our community with gardening, shopping and even cooking meals.

“He is always the first to volunteer when we do any function and is deserving of this award.”

A very modest Mr Wilson receives a trophy, plaque, and payment of £150 in recognition of winning the award.

He said: “I was shocked when I discovered I had won the award because I don’t do it for personal reward; I just enjoy helping people.

“It’s nice to know that my neighbours took time to nominate me and I am honoured to have won.”

Mr Wilson is the second good neighbour of the year award winner from Ryehill Gardens in two years. In 2022 the award went to Mavis and Brian Bage.

Paul Mullis, DAMHA Chief Executive, said: “It’s clear that there is a real sense of community in Ryehill Gardens and the fact we have now had two winners in consecutive years is evidence of this.

“We would like to congratulate Mr Wilson for his selfless efforts; he is a perfect example of why we present this award each year.”

Second prize, and receiving a plaque and £100, were Doreen Oxley, from Consett, and third prize, and receiving a plaque and £75 went to Billy Bowes, from Wheatley Hill.