SIX Town Housing hosted its annual awards ceremony this week, recognising those who go the extra mile to improve the lives of others in their communities.

More than 100 people attended the Community Heroes Awards at the Lancashire Fusiliers Museum, in Moss Street, last Thursday to support their nominated neighbours and community members from across the borough.

The awards celebrate those who live, work or volunteer within a property managed by Six Town Housing on behalf of Bury Council, and those making a difference delivering inspiring community projects and volunteering for Tenant and Resident Associations (TRAs).

This year, #WeBenefitBury, a local campaign aimed at challenging negative stereotyping of social housing tenants, featured heavily at the event.

A #WeBenefitBury video was screened and there was an opportunity for attending tenants to have their say on the matter for future publication online.

Hugh Broadbent, chairman of Six Town Housing’s board, said, “This year we received nominations for 58 inspirational people or groups based in our communities, who strive to make a difference to the lives of others.

"They are true heroes, and it goes to show that the negative image of council tenants often seen in media is just not representative of everyone. Six Town Housing’s tenants really do benefit Bury.”

Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, Bury’s cabinet member for finance and housing introduced the event. He said, “The Community Heroes Awards highlight the amazing things that happen within communities across the borough, which often get overlooked or taken for granted. These people change lives and help nurture and create welcoming communities. They deserve to be celebrated.”

The full of winners was as follows:

Superstar Neighbour - Ian Parker, from Bury

Journey Of The Year - Michelle Pace, from Bury

Best Community Project - Victoria Allotments, in Whitefield

Young Superstar - Angel-Leigh, Oliver and Georgina Heaps, from Bury

Unsung Hero - Michael Priestley, from Bury

Super 60+ Award - Sylvia Berry, from Radcliffe

Hero of the year – Bev Platt, from Bury

Colleague of the Year - Tunji Owolabi (Neighbourhood Advisor)

Chair and Chief Executive Award - Carran O'Grady (Customer Involvement)