I know this past year has been very tough for everyone, but with an immensely successful vaccine roll out we are slowly able to see life returning to normal.
People across our local area have gone above and beyond to help others, and to recognise their fantastic efforts I am launching a COVID Community Champions award. From collecting medication and groceries, to looking out for elderly neighbours, or volunteering or supporting the NHS - there are many stories of support that have taken place across our local communities during the pandemic.
I've met and heard stories of great compassion from individuals like Stephanie Prior of the Willingham Love Hub who looked after elderly and vulnerable individuals during the pandemic.
The team of staff and volunteers at the Staploe Medical Centre have done a fantastic job at rolling out the vaccine in our area and ensuring that patients are protected from COVID.
In Fordham, Cilla Palmer who manages the Timebank provided many services that were a lifeline to those in need. She organised shopping deliveries, prescription collections, a telephone helpline, newspaper deliveries, a phone buddy scheme as well as setting up a pen pal scheme between schoolchildren and those who were shielding. All have been a great success and have helped to combat loneliness.
And in Swaffham Prior, Cheryl Wilding organised the Parish Support group and provided food deliveries to those who were shielding.
These are just some stories of great community spirit that have taken place during these tough few months. I am keen to spotlight the stories of those who have gone and above and beyond during this tough time for our area and country.
If you would like to nominate a local individual to thank them for the work they have done across Cambridgeshire then please email me on [email protected] with:
Your name
Your address
Your email
Name and contact email of the individual you are nominating for the COVID Community Champion Award
One/two sentences on why you are nominating them
The closing date is 30th September. Alongside the Ely Standard, I will be announcing the winners in the autumn and I look forward to sharing their stories with you.
