A woman was recognised for her commitment to help improve the lives of her neighbours last night.

Nell Merrifield was given the Gerry Pickersgill Award for outstanding tenant involvement by the Bradford District Federation of Tenants and Residents.

She was praised for her hard work and enthusiasm to improve the lives of everyone at Ivy Bank Court sheltered housing scheme in Baildon including running bingo sessions, outings and setting up a residents’ committee.

Alex Brown, chairman of the federation, said: “Everyone was very impressed by Nell’s work to brighten up the lives of everyone at Ivy Bank Court and also her contribution towards working for better housing services over these past few years as a local management trust board member.”

The Gerry Pickersgill Award is made annually in memory of a dedicated housing manager from Keighley.

Special recognition awards went to Brenda Cox, of St Peter’s Court, Keighley, who has recently died, and Brenda Everett of Heathcliff, Haworth.