Caring pensioner up for neighbour award

Almost 300 nominations were sent in for the Happy Living Awards run by Anchor, England’s largest not-for-profit care and housing provider.

The awards were launched in August with six categories: Green Fingered Customer, Best Neighbour, Extraordinary Talent, Grandparent of the Year, Community Champion and Best Pet.

Mrs Waring, who has lived at Chesterton Court since 2012, is thrilled to be an award finalist. She said: “I am over the moon to be up for this award. It is so important to have good neighbours. I like to help others, whether it is to be there with a cup of tea and a chat or to go and help someone with their shopping.”

Maureen Carter, who is grateful for the help Frances gives to her, said: “Frances is a very busy lady but always finds time for her neighbours. No job is too big or small for her to help, be it driving people to the garden centre or helping with the computer.

“We have two couples in their 90s upstairs, and Frances visits them every day to have a chat, make them a drink and see if they need anything. Soon after Frances moved in, I had just returned from hospital and she invited me in for a meal – nobody had ever done that before.

“I am very glad to have Frances as a neighbour.”

A customer panel will be coming together and winners of the six categories will be announced this month.

For more information call 0345 140 2020 or visit www.anchor.org.uk

Report contributed by Lindsey Frodsham.