A REMARKABLE pensioner who has dedicated the past 30 years of her life to running a social club for disabled people has been nominated for a top award.

Joan Eastwood, of Strensall, is in the running to win Volunteer Of The Year at this year’s Community Pride Awards, which are run by The Press in association with City of York Council and Benenden Healthcare Society.

As chairwoman of the New Earswick And District Disabled Social Club, the 83-year-old works tirelessly to put on an evening of entertainment twice a month.

She has been nominated by the club’s other committee members, who said Joan treated every member of the club as part of her family.

In a statement to support their nomination, they wrote: “Her age seems irrelevant, but the rest of the committee are stunned by her energy and the fact that she is well into her 80s.

“She began by making tea, progressed to organising the fortnightly entertainment schedule and then took over as chairwoman.

“Thanks to her commitment, effort and organisational skill, the group offers transport, entertainment and a social evening twice a month. She views this group as part of her family and welcomes each new member with open arms. She always has time for a word and a laugh with everyone.

“Always kind and understanding, the committee has decided it is time her commitment was acknowledged by a wider audience.”

The club meets at Red Lodge, in New Earswick, and thanks to Joan and her committee, members are transported there by minibus or taxi to enjoy the programme of entertainment that Joan has organised.

The Volunteer Of The Year category aims to celebrate individuals who give up their time freely and unselfishly to help others.

It is one of 13 categories in the 2010 Community Pride Awards, which are an annual event to honour unsung heroes living in the City of York Council tax area.

We are relying on you, our readers, to nominate the ordinary people who have quietly gone that little bit further to make a difference.

The deadline for entries is Friday, July 23, after which a panel of judges, including representatives from The Press and City of York Council, will draw up a shortlist.

Finalists from each category will then be invited to a ceremony at York Racecourse in October.