Guardian Rose for '˜pillar of the community' Linda

Linda Silk was presented with the accolade in a surprise presentation ceremony at her home on Kilton Close on Tuesday.

She was nominated by Amy Doona and Louise Baxendale, who wanted to thank Linda for holding inclusive events for the community.

Amy said: “Linda is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met, but she also has the tenacity of an ox.

“I don’t live on Kilton Close anymore, but up until recently I lived there for around ten years and it was a tight-knit community thanks to Linda.

“When I first moved there I was looking for someone to fix an item of clothing for me and heard Linda was a seamstress, so I went to see her.

“She took me under her wing right away.

“I am the kind of person who given the choice would probably just go to work, come home and shut myself away.

“But Linda introduced me to people and encouraged me to talk to others.”

Linda loves baking and often makes cakes for neighbours with the help of children who live along Kilton Close.

She also holds street events such as BBQ’s and most recently a Royal Wedding Street Party which was “much enjoyed” by Kilton Close residents.

“She loves the street, she loves people- she is a big believer in community and looking after each other,” said Amy.

“What makes her the more amazing is she’s been doing all this while helping her husband through cancer.

“He recently got the all-clear, so I thought this would be a great time to celebrate and let her know how much she is appreciated.”

Amy added: “Linda was really happy with her rose. She is overwhelmed by how many people have agreed how deserving she is.”

Our Guardian Roses are generously donated by Walker’s House of Flowers, based in the Priory Shopping Centre.

To make a nomination for a Guardian Rose email [email protected]