Outstanding Haringey residents awarded

Friday 21 August 2009

A retired couple who spent a number of substantial years volunteering in their local community have been rewarded by Homes for Haringey’s Chief Executive, Paul Bridge. Bob and Maureen Towerzey from the Sandlings estate in Wood Green, were presented with a plaque for their ‘Outstanding Commitment and Achievement’ at a recent residents’ association meeting.

For over 35 years, the Towerzeys have actively supported their neighbours and young people living on the estate and in the broader community. Currently Maureen is Chair of both the Sandlings Residents’ Association and the adjoining Sandbunker community centre. The couple and their son, Michael, also played a major role in setting up the youth club.

The presentation was made after the couple, who have lived on the estate since it was built, were unable to attend an earlier ceremony honouring local volunteers held in the Civic Centre in March.  All resident volunteer winners also received £300 to spend on community projects of their choice.

In addition to assisting with running the Sandbunker youth club, hosting resident association meetings, going on estate monitoring walkabouts and campaigning for volunteers, the residents association has raised over £2,500 organising charity nights for the Wish House charity for terminally ill sick children.

“The estate has improved a lot over the years and that has been down to joint community effort,” says Maureen. “You have to get involved if you want things to change. It is all about team work and we are a good team.”

Bob said it was nice to be recognised ‘officially’ adding; “We would encourage other residents to get involved so they could have a voice in their community, get to know their neighbours and address facilities such as lighting and parking. It would also give us the opportunity to take a well earned break.”

Paul Bridge, added: “Maureen and Bob deserve this award. The commitment they have shown their local community has been nothing short of outstanding.”

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