16 Dec Our Hammersmith heroes
The trials and restrictions of this year’s pandemic created an unprecedented range of new pressures. But there have been many volunteers, employers, neighbours, colleagues and friends who have helped the Hammersmith community. They have delivered support, charitable giving or just reassurance.
To celebrate this, in early December we asked our businesses and residents to nominate some of your local Hammersmith Heroes from this year.
We received a number of nominations, and from a great shortlist we picked out four individuals or businesses to be rewarded – with a seasonal hamper.
Our winners included Mr William Slattery, an 83 year-old gentleman who was nominated by his family. We were told: “He takes time to phone the other residents to make sure they are OK and offers to get shopping or medications. He also bakes for the community, bread pudding, Welsh cakes and makes stews for the less able.” You can find more details here.
We also delivered a hamper to the Blue Cross Animal Hospital – a local charity that was nominated a number of times by different people. It seemed that the users of the hospital were deeply grateful for the efforts made by the staff and medical teams to keep this vital facility open throughout the various lockdowns. We heard: “The team has still managed to help over 2000 pets in need this year, and when working on site have done all this in full PPE. They have even sourced aprons which rustled less to avoid frightening the animals! The team has worked tirelessly all year and the workload has only increased as more people find themselves in financial need of the charity’s services due to the pandemic.”
Also a winner: Andrea Rosin, a local nurse, was chosen for her dedication to her family and neighbours even after gruelling shifts within the NHS. Sandra Solokovic was rewarded for a similar outlook. “Sandra was available day and night answering questions and she has never been seen without a smile on her face. We all felt like being more energetic and positive after talking to her. I really don’t know anyone who deserves more attention and presents in West London.”
Aside from our worthy winners, many others were nominated and we thank everyone for their community efforts. Full stories can be found here.