Linda honoured for community work

From the archive, first published Wednesday 6th Dec 2006.

A Bradford woman was celebrating yesterday after being honoured for her community work.

Canterbury resident Linda Adams, 53, was given the Gerry Pickersgill Award 2006 by the Bradford District Federation of Tenants and Residents in memory of a dedicated area housing manager.

Gerry Pickersgill, who died in December 2000, was known as Mr Keighley'. His widow, Janet Pickersgill, and Geraldine Howley, the chief executive of the Bradford Community Housing Trust, presented Linda with an engraved trophy.

Linda set up the Canterbury Residents Group four years ago to bring residents together to get things done.

They quickly made their mark by lobbying the Council to tackle road safety problems in the area.

Linda holds a weekly drop-in session on the estate and provides advice to groups searching for funding opportunities. She also runs a Christmas hamper service with the help of a team of volunteers. This year, 200 hampers will be handed out.

Housing Manager Anna Fryer, from Bradford West City Community Housing Trust, said: "Linda works tirelessly to help others and is a firm believer that residents working together can make a difference.

"I am delighted Linda is being recognised with this prestigious award."

Harry Whittle, head of operations at Aire-Wharfe Community Housing Trust, who was one of the judging panel, said: "The nominations have been of a very high standard and it was difficult to choose an outright winner, but everyone was impressed by Linda's tireless work."

Christine Tomlinson and Vera Hodgson, members of the Clayton Community Action Group, also received a special recognition award. The judging panel were impressed with their commitment and enthusiasm to encourage community spirit by organising events and activities.

Geraldine Howley, chief executive of the Bradford Community Housing Trust Group, said: "Well done to Linda, Christine and Vera who have all given countless hours of their time to helping tenants and local groups.

"Linda Adams has helped to breathe new life into the Canterbury area. In Clayton, Christine Tomlinson and Vera Hodgson have worked hard over many years. Residents have benefited greatly from these three special ladies.

e-mail: saima.mir@bradford.newsquest.co.uk