A HANDYMAN whose community spirit and hard work has improved the quality of life on a York estate is in line for a top award.

John Nicholson, a City of York Council worker in the Walmgate and Navigation Road area, has been nominated in the Person Of The Year category in The Press’s Community Pride Awards in recognition of the sterling job he does in the community.

Nominated for the second year running by local resident Barbara Pettitt, John, 43, is described as someone who is always smiling, cheerful and a “rock” to the local neighbourhood.

“Not only is John a handyman, but he works as a gardener who does any jobs required in the community,” said Barbara.

“He also helps around the area with elderly people and is always happy to go that bit further to help anyone in need.

“The estate has been a happier place to live in since John came over three years ago.

“He is a very reliable person and very much ‘hands on’ if needed.”

“When my husband was in hospital and John watered all our hanging baskets and took care of our garden– it is little things like this that shows he really goes the extra mile.

“John is a rock in the neighbourhood who would be impossible to replace.”

The Community Pride Awards, now in their sixth year, are run in conjunction with the City of York Council and offer a rare chance to give the recognition they deserve to those modest people whose sterling work make a positive, but often unsung, contribution to the city,.

The Press needs nominees for the awards.

If you know of someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the community, we would love to hear about them.

This summer, a panel of judges will be whittling down a shortlist from your nominations, and the awards will be presented at a ceremony at York Racecourse in October.

To nominate someone, simply fill in the entry form.

Send in a non-returnable picture of your nominee 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