Hackney Residents from across the borough, came out on Friday 13 April to celebrate the Hackney Homes Active Residents Awards, looking back at the past year and recognising those who go the extra mile to get involved and make a difference in their local community.

Over 100 residents, involved in local Tenant and Residents Associations (TRA) and other forms of engagement attended the annual event, which opened with a motivational speech from long serving, active resident and ex TRA representative, Sid Curtis. He highlighted the history and journey of his involvement with Hackney Council and Hackney Homes, the challenges faced and overwhelming benefits of being an involved member of a tenants and residents association.

Winners on the night included Hackney Homes Disability Forum for group of the year, Gabriel Hardisty – Miller; young resident of the year and Terry Edwards; Ron Devoti Award for services to Hackney.

The resident of the year honour was awarded to Irene Lewington for continuous involvement on her estate and willingness to regularly volunteer her time, assisting neighbours with hospital appointments, visiting those who have difficulty getting out and being a pillar of strength to residents on her estate.

Irene said “I feel overwhelmed and pleased to have won. I have lived in Hackney for over 83 years and I still love it. We have the best parks in London and I love the Hackney people.”

Deputy Mayor of Hackney, Councillor Alcock, Cabinet Advisor for Hackney Homes, Councillor Glanville and Chair of Hackney Homes Board, Rupert Tyson MBE presented the winners with their awards and thanked all the nominees for their dedication and hard work.

Cabinet Adviser for Hackney Homes, Councillor Glanville said: “There is a fantastic range of achievements in Hackney and I congratulate all the winners and runners up. The resident awards showcase the passionate commitment that Hackney Homes residents have for our Borough and where they live.”

Photograph - Resident of the year winner; Irene Lewington and Chair of Hackney Homes Board, Rupert Tyson MBE.