Community group recognised for supporting families in New Addington (From Croydon Guardian)

Community group recognised for supporting families in New Addington

2:30pm Wednesday 2nd January 2013 in News

A New Addington group has been recognised its role in supporting families following the death of Tia Sharp.

New Addington Pathfinders won the category for outstanding residents group at the Croydon Stars awards, which recognises the hard work of council tenants and leaseholders.

The group was praised for providing a community base at the Fieldway Estate at the time of Tia Sharp’s death in August last year.

Group founders Kirsty Pearce, Paul Wellecome and Marion Burchell were presented with certificates by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Eddy Arram.

Winners were nominated in different categories by residents, councillors and officers.

Eric Webb, of Addiscombe won the award for long service to the community.

Mr Webb represented the views of residents on various housing panels.

The All Ages project, which has brought youngsters and adults together to improve their communities, won the category for most innovative activity.

Amongst its successes was the launch of the 2 Views magazine, which reports on community stories and is distributed across housing estates three times a year.

Kim Wakely picked up the resident of the year award for her work representing families on the Monks Hill estate in South Croydon.

Councillor Dudley Mead, cabinet member for housing, said: “These awards celebrate our fantastic residents for their hard work and dedication, which has improved the lives of families and communities across the borough.

“The council is grateful for their invaluable contribution during 2012, in particular the New Addington Pathfinders at what was an extremely tragic and difficult time for all concerned.”