Michael Johnson (centre) with parish priest, Fr Michael Campion, and members of the Society.
Members of the St Vincent de Paul Society in Newton Aycliffe, based at St Mary’s Church, were recently awarded a Cornerstone of the Community Award by Newcastle Building Society for their work in the local community.
They were nominated for the award by Michael Johnson, whom the members regularly visit at his home in Clarence Green.
Gerardine Stubbs, President of the Conference, told Newton News: “It is usually older people we visit, but it can be the young; whoever needs us for practical or emotional support, we try to help. There are around 30 people we regularly visit and we fundraise to pay for our work. Sometimes it is just about being a listening ear and a bit of company to those people who don’t see anyone for days on end and get lonely. They look forward to us coming. Most are parishioners but some have just turned to the church for help. We don’t do this for recognition but it was lovely when Michael nominated us and we couldn’t quite believe it when we won, but were proud and happy.
