Her luncheon club is a lifeline for elderly and vulnerable people. Residents in Mather Road, Elswick, Newcastle, know they can always turn to Charlotte James, 77. She has dedicated her life to helping the most isolated people in her area and raising money for local charities.

Charlotte has worked hand-in-hand with street wardens and other volunteers to make sure residents have at least one hot meal a week.  She founded the luncheon club and raises the money to set it up - organising events like tombolas and table top sales.

Ill health has forced her to resign from the tenants’ group, but Charlotte will always be someone who tenants know they can trust.

“The luncheon club provides an opportunity for people to come together and talk about what is bothering them,” said neighbour Barbara Cage, who has also been shortlisted herself for an award in the North East Neighbour of the Year section.

“People can talk about things like housing issues in a less formal setting,” said Barbara. “This was all her idea and she raised initial funds to start the project, backed by the tenants’ group.

“She has dedicated her life to charity work across Elswick, raising money, doing tombolas and table top sales to raise money for a variety of groups she has been involved with over the years.

“And until recently she was still coming up with ideas to support the most disadvantaged people in the community.”