Unsung heroes of Wakefield given festive surprise for their generosity

Three unsung heroes in Wakefield were given a festive treat at Christmas as a way of thanking them for their generous work in the community

The Christmas kindness competition, held by Wakefield District Housing, was launched for its tenants in time for Christmas.

The campaign was set up in order to find the unsung heroes that have helped others during the pandemic, giving them a festive surprise.

They received more than 200 nominations by the public, each with their own heartwarming acts of kindness, with three being selected from across the district.

Claire Wilson from Castleford was nominated for bringing some Christmas cheer to children by delivering hot chocolate cones

Among the winners was Colin Place from Fitzwilliam who was nominated by his neighbour for sharing his home-grown fruit and vegetables with the residents in their communal courtyard and for showing true community spirit by brightening everyone’s day with a friendly chat.

Colin said: “I can’t believe I’ve won, I didn’t even know I was nominated.

“I don’t think I do anything out of the ordinary, I just like to support my neighbours where I can.”

Claire Wilson from Castleford was nominated for bringing some much-needed Christmas cheer to children by delivering hot chocolate cones and selection boxes to families in Airedale, dressed in festive costumes.

Colin Place from Fitzwilliam was nominated by his neighbour for sharing his home-grown fruit and veg with the residents in their courtyard

Organised through Facebook, Claire funded the activity by organising raffles and donations to spread joy after a difficult year.

Claire said: “The idea just started between me and some friends and then it just grew.

“It’s nice to be able to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to people after such a difficult year.

“I was so surprised when I got the phone call to say I’d won!”

Michelle Stead from Ackworth made the heart-breaking decision to isolate herself from her family for weeks to keep them and her patients safe

Another winner was nominated for her dedication to her work as a nurse during the pandemic.

Working on the front-line for the NHS, Michelle Stead from Ackworth made the heart-breaking decision to isolate herself from her family for weeks to keep them and her patients safe.

Michelle said: “I was really shocked, but I am over the moon to have won.

“It is such a lovely idea and was a very nice surprise to end the year.”

To continue with the community kindness theme, the winner’s prizes were purchased from small local businesses who have been hit hard by pandemic.

The three winners received a range of surprises such as an afternoon tea hamper, bath bombs and cupcakes.

Andy Wallhead, WDH Chief Executive said: “In these times where negativity seems to be all around us, we wanted to celebrate the good in our communities at Christmas time.

“We know that there are so many people out there that do good deeds on a daily basis, without a second thought.

“We were taken aback by the stories shared with us and are thrilled to shine a light on those who put others first.”

“Congratulations to all the winners, I hope the gifts go some way to showing how appreciated you are.

“Thank you to every single person who was nominated for showing kindness to others and for having a positive impact in our communities.”