A PENSIONER who offered years of friendship and support to a housebound neighbour has been described as a ‘inspiration and great example’ and been rewarded with a Good Neighbour Award.

Pat Nunn, 69, of Stonyhurst Road, Blackburn, gives up hours of her time each week to help her neighbour Pat Magee, 71, who has restricted mobility after a number of strokes.

She stepped in to keep her company, do go shopping on a daily basis and ensure she has everything she needs.

Pat has been assisting her friend, who lives in the flat beneath hers, for about eight years and does not see it in any way as a burden.

She said: “I enjoy it. I pop round and Pat does me a little list of what she needs from the shops and I get it, along with my own shopping.

“Even if I don’t need anything myself it’s no trouble. It gets me out and it’s nice to help. We have a cup of tea and a chat and I make sure everything’s okay with her.

“The only time I’ve not done her shopping was when I was had flu for a a couple of weeks.”

Pat was rewarded with a Good Neighbour Award and a weekend trip to the Elgin Hotel in Blackpool, where she was accompanied by her friend, Carole Wood.

She said: “It was a big surprise to be nominated and to get the award. I’m nothing special, it’s just being neighbourly, but I was very pleased.

“We had a grand time in Blackpool, watching the musical entertainment. It was a really good break.”