Over the past few months, you’ve shared hundreds of stories about the neighbours who make your street feel like home… and we’ve loved every single one.
From the neighbour who always puts everyone else’s bins out, to the one who checks in on others and picks up their shopping, to those who organise community events, raise money for local causes or are simply always there with a cuppa and a helping hand when someone needs it.
Your stories have been a lovely reminder that community is often built on the little things people do for one another every day – and it’s exactly why being part of communities like yours means so much to us.
We recently caught up with our first winner, Christine, who was nominated by her daughter for everything she does for people in her local community.
Alongside volunteering with local charities and supporting causes close to home, Christine creates care bags for people leaving hospital and puts together Christmas gifts for those who might otherwise be lonely over the festive period – often with a few Ringtons goodies included for good measure.
Telling Christine why she’d put her forward, her daughter said:
“I know how much you do for your immediate community, your family and your friends, supporting the Scouts and any other good cause people are raising funds for. But I also know how much you do for SEARCH (a voluntary project supporting the welfare of older people in Newcastle), and I just thought it’d be nice for you to be recognised.”
Christine received a Ringtons hamper packed with treats to enjoy as a small thank you for everything she does.
And she’s just the first of our winners. Our team now has the lovely (and very difficult!) job of going through all your heartwarming nominations. We’ll be getting in touch with more deserving neighbours to surprise them with a hamper and sharing more of their stories over the next few months.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate someone – and, most importantly, to all those brilliant neighbours quietly making their communities that little bit better every day.