An award in memory of a former area housing manager known as “Mr Keighley” has been presented to Baildon tenant Nell Merrifield.

She received the Gerry Pickersgill Award in a ceremony at Keighley’s New Variety Club.

The accolade, presented annually by the Bradford District Federation of Tenants and Residents and supported by Incommunities, recognises outstanding tenant involvement.

The late Mr Pickersgill was a popular figure with tenants and staff.

His widow, Janet, and Geraldine Howley — Incommunities group chief executive — presented Nell with a trophy, certificate and bouquet of flowers on behalf of the district federation.

Nell, from the Ivy Bank Court sheltered scheme at Baildon, was among seven people whose names were put forward by tenants and area federations for the award. Judging was by a panel of housing representatives.

Special recognition awards went to Brenda Cox, from St Peter’s Court, in Keighley, and Brenda Everett, of Heathcliff, in Haworth, for their drive and energy to help others. Brenda died recently and her certificate and flowers have been sent to her daughter.

Other nominees — who received certificates — were Joan and Ralph Hewitt, of the Haworth Road area, Bradford, Sandra Bullock, from Allerton, and Alison Elsworth, of Bradford.

Alex Brown, chairman of the Bradford District Federation of Tenants and Residents, said: “The standard of the nominations has again been extremely high and it has been difficult deciding on the overall winner.

Mrs Howley said: “Every year, the Gerry Pickersgill Award celebrates the achievements of special individuals who each show a passion for helping others and making a difference in their community.

“Well done to Nell Merrifield — this year’s well deserved award winner — and all the nominees who each share this passion.

“We are all very saddened that one of the nominees, Brenda Cox, who worked so hard at St Peter’s Court, recently passed away and our condolences go to her family.”