HAYDON Wick’s Mike Whelan hopes to use his nomination for the Pride of Swindon Awards to encourage others to do their bit for their community.

The 69-year-old has dedicated his retirement to supporting people in his community, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.

He is the co-ordinator of the Haydon Centre Coffee Morning, which has become a central community hub and founded the Gentle Health Walk to help those with mobility issues get out and about.

He is also a parish councillor, and the chairman of the Over 60’s Young at Heart club, providing a lunch and social space for Over 60’s in Haydon Wick.

Mike said: “I’m excited. I think it’s brilliant. There are some lovely, beautiful people in Haydon Wick and I like to be able to look after them.

“I do what I can to help in the community and I hope my nomination will encourage others to do the same.

“I was surprised when I heard I had been nominated because I never thought about that.”

This year marks the sixth year that the Pride of Swindon Awards have taken place, recognising the children and adults in the town who have gone above and beyond to support their local communities.

Mike said: “I think the Pride of Swindon Awards are brilliant. I think they encourage other people to do more in their communities.

“I just want people to help somebody else.”

Residents can still nominate the individuals and groups they think have made a big difference in their communities, including selfless volunteers, children and adults who has shown great courage, someone who has reduced crime in the area or someone who has helped at a sports club.

People can also nominate a young person who should be recognised as a role model or a neighbour or an employee who has gone the extra mile in their role, including police officers, firefighters, doctors, nurses and teachers.

People can also nominate someone for a posthumous award. Nominations close on February 3.

To nominate someone who has made a difference to your community for the Pride of Swindon Awards, follow this link to the nomination form: http:www.swindon. gov.uk or www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk. Forms will also be available in libraries throughout the town, or from the Mayor’s Office.

Post your nomination to: The Pride Of Swindon Awards, Mayor’s Office, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH or email prideofswindonawards@swindon.gov.uk