AN “INSPIRATIONAL” woman has taken home the trophy as the Gazette’s first Community Hero.

Merle Johnson, 73, received a trophy and £100 for her hard work with numerous organisations across the town thanks to the campaign, which is sponsored by Abellio Greater Anglia.

She was nominated by Hythe Community Centre, where she runs several groups.

Merle, a former intensive care nurse of Gurdon Road, Colchester, said: “It was a big shock, as I had no idea I had been nominated.

“I don’t do this for recognition. I really enjoy what I do and the fact I can help. I know a lot of people can’t.

“I would like to encourage more people to volunteer if they can and also to nominate more people to be Community Heroes. It’s a bit embarrassing, but it’s a lovely feeling.”

As well as being a volunteer trustee at the Hythe Community Centre, Merle volunteers for the British Red Cross, is a volunteer gardener for the Oak Tree Centre, in Harwich Road, works with Colchester Borough Homes and is a befriender for Christians Against Poverty.

Sareena Cobden, Hythe Community Centre manager, added: “Merle really is inspirational.

“For a lady of her age, she does an awful lot to help other people. She’s always at the end of the phone when I need her.

“I hope more people come forward to nominate their unsung heroes.”

James Wills, editor-in-chief of the Gazette, said: “This is incredibly well deserved. Merle has done brilliant work and we are delighted to be able to give her some much-needed appreciation.

“Wewant to thank Abellio Greater Anglia for sponsoring the campaign.

We still want your nominations, so if there is someone you think deserves recognition, get in touch.”

Petrina Murphy, Abellio Greater Anglia’s area customer service manager, said: “Merle Johnson is a very worthy Community Hero.

“Her wide-ranging volunteering and support for others in the local community is extremely impressive and she truly deserves this award.”

To nominate your own Community Hero, send your details, their name and reasons why they should win to gazette.newsdesk@nqe.com