Our News Archive

AMID the many COVID-19 lockdowns, we asked Muir residents to vote for their Lockdown Heroes - both residents and non-residents who had helped and brought joy to the people living with Muir.

We're delighted to celebrate those you thought deserved Hero status!

Congratulations and thank you to Darren Makinson!

 

 

 

LOCKDOWN Hero, Darren Makinson, was nominated for an award by Muir residents for the tireless work he does supporting vulnerable people in communities, both in and out of lockdowns.

Chairman of The Albert Project which is committed to supported homeless people in Blackpool and Preston, the initiative changed slightly to meet the demands of COVID-19 lockdowns, although its dedications towards helping others remained as steadfast as ever.

Lee and the project’s founder, Wayne Sando, have helped to feed more than 500 families who were struggling financially due to losing jobs as a result of COVID, and vulnerable people in the community.

They created food parcels from items donated by supermarkets and delivered them personally to homeless people being housed in hotels, and to whoever else they knew needed them.

“We did a lot of it ourselves because we didn’t want to put our volunteers at risk during these times,” Lee said.

“I was delivering food parcels twice a day for 16 weeks at one time.

“Usually we help homeless people on the streets with food, clothes and hygiene packs, but because they were able to stay in hotels we expanded this to help families struggling in lockdown too.

“We were able to provide Christmas dinner, presents and decorations and for some who thought they would need to cancel it.

“I find it very rewarding knowing I’ve helped someone and seeing a smile or the look of relief on their faces – that’s enough for me.

“I was surprised to get this award, but Wayne and I just love helping people and putting something back into the community.”