Local MP Robbie Moore launches the ‘Keighley and Ilkley Unsung Hero Awards’ to recognise those in our community who are going above and beyond to help others during this difficult time. This may include those who are looking out for their neighbours, delivering essential supplies to vulnerable people, supporting key workers or providing a friendly conversation to those who are isolating alone during the Coronavirus outbreak, who normally would not receive – or expect – recognition for their work.
The MP for Keighley and Ilkley recognised that whilst many community groups have been set up in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic – as well as those who were already operational – there are many people who are selflessly going out of their way to help neighbours, friends and strangers get through this tough time. Many of these everyday heroes go unrecognised. Winners of the Keighley and Ilkley Unsung Hero Award will be presented with a certificate for the valiant effort during the lockdown period and will be invited to a special reception later in the year once the lockdown measures have been lifted. Winners will be decided and announced on a weekly basis.
Mr Moore said: “Since Coronavirus first hit headlines in the UK, I have been bowled over by the kindness and generosity of people in the Keighley and Ilkley constituency. It is heart-warming to see that so many people want to help those in need. We have many established groups in the area who are helping the most vulnerable in our society and I commend them for everything that they do. However, there are those who are helping people on an individual basis, whether that is helping neighbours, friends, people from their local centre of faith or people they have found on social media. Likewise, there may be individuals within larger volunteer groups who are particularly going above and beyond. It is these unsung heroes to whom I wanted to pay tribute.
“I am encouraging residents to nominate people from all walks of life, whether that is individuals who are shopping for neighbours, walking pets on behalf of people in self-isolations, businesses owners who are using their facilities to offer food and supplies to NHS workers and key workers at no cost, or people who are providing a friendly ear to those who may not speak to anybody during the lockdown period. It may also be those who are helping fundraise for organisations. There is no limit to what people can be nominated for and there is no limit to how big or small the contribution may be.”
The Keighley and Ilkley Unsung Hero Awards will roll on a weekly basis, with a Hero being announced every Friday. Nominations can be made continuously on Mr Moore’s website by visiting www.robbiemoore.org.uk/unsung-hero-awards with nominations for that week being open until 5pm Thursday. Winners will be published on Mr Moore’s website and social media, as well as in his regular e-newsletter.
