THE Northern Echo has launched a new weekly feature in which we present a bouquet of flowers to an individual or group going the extra mile in their community. The recipient of this week’s bouquet of the week is Diane Arrowsmith, from Esh Winning, who was nominated by Marie Gressmann.

Why do they deserve this

Diane teaches Zumba four times a week in Newhouse Club, which is in our village; she does this not for profit, but to give something back to her community. She teaches people of all ages and abilities and creates a warm, happy and welcoming atmosphere, she also gives loads of encouragement to everyone to get fit and have a great time. She regularly fundraises for good causes in our village and goes out of her way to help people who would benefit from some kindness. She is also instrumental in rallying others around to do their bit to help. This includes local shops, businesses and people who come to her classes. Many of the people in her classes do things to help, so she provides opportunities for other unsung heroes in Esh Winning.

What is the most deserving thing they have done

This Christmas she is organising fundraising and food donations for elderly people in our village; this is to provide Christmas hampers. She organised Zumbathon nights which included karaoke with Dave, tarot readings with Catherine, a raffle with the Zumba folk donating prizes; lots of others who go to Newhouse Club where all this takes place, kindly donated. It’s heart warming to see how this lovely unassuming lady has brought about such a caring community spirit.

Tell us more about her

Diane was unwell herself last year and tried hard to get fit again, hardly missing an opportunity to run her classes, even when she had to do this sitting down. What a star. She is a really genuine lady. She is a family focused, and a good person who makes a difference in ways you cannot really measure and the lovely thing is, she doesn’t realise how much she is appreciated.

Describe them in three words

Compassionate, caring, inspirational.

If you would like to nominate a special person or group for The Northern Echo’s Bouquet of the Week then please get in touch. You can send your nominations to jo.kelly@newsquest.co.uk, making sure to include your contact details, or call us on 01325-505036. The flowers are kindly provided by the team at Heavenly Scent Florist, Bondgate, 01325-389933.