A NEWLY-formed group set up to tackle the problems of homelessness in Malvern has been nominated for a community award, despite having been active for only a few weeks.

Malvern Against Homelessness was formed by Labour Party town councillor Samantha Charles as a response to the tragic deaths of two homeless men, Remigiusz Boczarski and Joby Sparrey, in Malvern over the winter.

Since its formation only a month ago, the group has built relationships with homeless people through outreach work.

It runs a weekly street cafe, collects and donates clothing and personal care items, has forged links with decision makers at Malvern Hills District Council and Fortis Housing and has arranged health, dental care, housing and benefits appointments for people who need them.

It has now been nominated for the Improving Lives award at the Pride of Malvern Hills Community Awards 2019.

Cllr Charles said: "We are overwhelmed by the public support we have received from local people who want to see an end to rough sleeping in Malvern. This award nomination is for all our cooks and volunteers who have helped so much in such a short period of time.”

The community awards scheme aims to recognise individuals, projects, groups and organisations whose dedication and commitment has improved the lives and wellbeing of residents.

Nominations have now closed for the awards, and the winners will be announced in March

*Two members of the Malvern Buzzards running group took part in a sleep-out in Birmingham to help homeless people, motivated by the Malvern deaths.

Club members Mike Anstey and Lynda Broadway, together with Lynda’s daughter Abby Walford and Josh Timms, slept in cardboard boxes in a city centre car park along with about 90 others to raise awareness and funds for the charity Birmingham City Mission, which provides support to homeless people.

So far, they have raised just over £800. To sponsor them, visit their page at mydonate.bt.com.