A WOMAN who has played the same church organ for 60 years has been praised for dedicating her life to the needs of her local community.

Winifred Walker, 72, has played the organ at Wilton Village Church, near Redcar, east Cleveland, since the age of 12.

The mother-of-three has now been nominated for an award in The Northern Echo's Neighbour From Heaven compeititon.

Neighbour and best friend of 30 years Pam Barrick has been in and out of hospital for a number of years and is grateful for the support Mrs Walker has given her.

Not only did she reach out to Mrs Barrick in her time of need, but Mrs Walker runs errands and does good deeds throughout the Lazenby community.

Taking a break from her busy life, a modest Mrs Walker said her generosity was "all in a day's work".

But retired teacher Mrs Barrick said of her best friend: "It's just nice to reward the people who make our lives easier. There is so much negative news out there that we don't get to hear much about the good people. And Winifred is certainly one of those.

"If everyone had the caring and thoughtful neighbour that she has been, not only to me but to everyone in the village, the world would be a better place."

During her busy day, Mrs Walker also finds time to play the piano at the village nursing home and at Christmas, plays the piano at the school concert.

Mrs Barrick added: "You can never thank anyone enough who helps out as much as Winifred.

"It is such a comforting thought that I only have to pick up the telephone to have someone there. Winifred is the best neighbour in the village."

Mrs Walker will be presented with a Neighbour from Heaven certificate and is now in with a chance of winning the grand prize - a £1,500 holiday courtesy of The Cruise Store, the new on-stop cruise shop in Going Places. If she wins, Mrs Barrick will receive £250 worth of holiday vouchers.

To nominate someone for the Osba award (Outstanding Behaviour Special Award), which is the opposite of an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo)), simply send your entry to: Northern Echo Neighbours from Heaven, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF.

The closing date is June 1 and nominees could have their story featured in the paper.