Jim is centre of attention

10:37am Friday 25th April 2008

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A DEDICATED caretaker is in line for a York Community Pride award, in recognition of his hard work for his neighbourhood.

Jim Lynch, caretaker of Tang Hall Community Centre, has been nominated for the public sector hero award.

The 63-year-old has worked at the centre for nine years, and was put forward by local councillor Roger Pierce.

Coun Pierce said: "Jim is a former Royal Navy submariner and British Rail train driver. Jim's Irish and his wife Maltese. They have children living in York. Jim is always cheerful, helpful, polite and hard-working.

"He encourages more people to use the centre despite the additional work that this causes. He takes an obvious pride in the inside and outside of the centre. The heads' (toilets) - as he calls them - are ship-shape and in Royal Navy fashion.

"He is the complete opposite of popular stereotypical, caretaker who is dour, constantly complaining and wants to keep the building tidy by discouraging users. I therefore commend Jim Lynch for a community award."

Mr Lynch was taken aback by his nomination. He said: "I was very embarrassed. There are more people than me who deserve it. I am just doing my job - nothing extra special."

He said: "I love it here. I would not change it - no chance.

"I am going to retire in a few years, but it is a lovely place to be."

The Press still needs more nominees for the York Community Pride awards, which are run jointly by the paper and City of York Council. If you know of someone who you think has made an outstanding contribution to the community, The Press would love to hear from you.

To nominate someone, simply fill in the coupon (link below).

Send in a non-returnable picture of your nominee if you can, along with a supporting statement setting out why your nominee deserves an award. Send nominations to Community Pride Awards, Paula Homer, The Press, 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN. Alternatively, you can email us at editor@thepress.co.uk.