It has been obvious to Trust Thamesmead for years that many residents, workers, carers and volunteers go above and beyond their call of duty and we wanted to recognise them by introducing the Trust Thamesmead Inspirational Woman Award, so for the second year running, we are asking you to nominate your most inspirational woman.

The lady in question can be of any age (16+) who lives, works or volunteers in Thamesmead. So whether you know a school girl who is a carer, a lady who gives up her free time to work with others or a worker who goes beyond her call of duty, write to us and let us know why they should win this award in no more than 80 words.

Last year retired Thamesmead resident, Pat Thompson, who volunteers around 35 hours a week at Thamesmead’s over 50s group the Pop in Parlour won the Trust Thamesmead Inspiration Woman Award, comments included: “She always has a smile and a kind word.” And praise for “her wonderful work”, “her friendly smile and generous nature”, “her dedication”, “helping people in more ways than one” and for “making everyone feel welcome”.

Pat was blown away when she found out she had been nominated for the award and couldn’t believe it when she won, telling us: “It is praise enough to get a thank you from someone when I give them a cup of tea so I was blown away when I was told I had won this award. I feel very privileged that people voted for me.”

Entries should be posted to Trust Thamesmead’s Inspirational Woman Award, Trust Thamesmead, 19a Joyce Dawson Way, Thamesmead Town Centre, SE28 8RA or E: contact@trust-thamesmead.co.uk writing Inspirational Woman Award in the subject box. Entries must be received no later than Friday 26 February 2010.

The award ceremony will take place on or around International Woman’s Day on Monday 8 March. The winner will receive £60 worth of Bluewater vouchers, a personal award and their name etched on the official Trust Thamesmead Inspirational Woman shield.

Please ntoe Trust Thamesmead employees are not eligible for this award.