News from Sheffield Labour

Gordon Brown welcomes Sheffield ‘community hero’ to Downing Street

Gordon Brown took a break from international talks yesterday to welcome a Sharrow community activist to Downing Street. The Prime Minister organised a reception to celebrate the work of ‘community heroes’ from across the country, at which Sheffield was represented by 83 year old Lily McCall from Leverton Gardens in Sharrow. Mrs McCall was nominated by Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Sheffield Central, Paul Blomfield, who took her to London with her husband, Gerald.

Paul Blomfield said: “Lily’s an inspiration. She’s shown what a difference people can make by getting involved in their community. There are so many people I’ve met across the constituency doing so many great things, and they often go unrecognised. So it was a privilege to take Lily to Downing Street on behalf of them all.”

Lily McCall became the first Chair of the Leverton Tenants and Residents Association in 1983 and has done the job ever since. As Chair, she successfully campaigned for the city’s first community garden in 1985 and won central heating, CCTV door security and other improvements to the flats. In 2004, she was elected as one of the first tenant directors of Sheffield Homes. She is the Environmental Champion for Sheffield Homes, responsible for pressing for reduction in carbon emissions and environmental improvements, and is also the Community Engagement Champion, working with tenants across Sheffield.

In addition to all her work for Leverton TARA and Sheffield Homes, she co-ordinates the production of meals and cooks for twice-weekly luncheon clubs at the Salvation Army on Duke Street, where she also supports placements for adults with learning difficulties. A former Chair of the GMB Shop Stewards Committee at the Town Hall, Mrs McCall was awarded the Lord Mayor’s Medal in 1997/98.

Commenting on her visit to Downing Street, Mrs McCall said: “Gordon Brown gave me a great welcome. He’s got really warm personality and he made me feel special. You can tell he’s someone who cares about people, and cares about how we can make everybody’s lives better.”

Other news from Sheffield Labour

• Sheffield residents reject Council's Crystal Peaks plan - 17 March 2010
• Sport England provides £10m for 'Active Universities' - 12 March 2010
• Clive Betts MP hits the ground running for Sport Relief - 11 March 2010