Milton Keynes Citizen readers nominate hundreds of their 'covid heroes' - here's who they are

We asked Citizen readers to tell this newspaper who their lockdown legends have been so we could help to share their good work, and the nominations were in the hundreds.

Those who have touched the most lives in this area, include remarkable human beings that have been the back bone behind food banks, a disability nursing team giving families much-needed respite and individuals who have all been chinks of light offering a listening ear.

Here are some of your nominations for incredible people in Milton Keynes who have been making a big difference.

Suzanne Welton said: “I would like to nominate Emily's Star. They look after all of us with children who have disabilities. They helped me take my boys out when we were allowed. I have 18-year-old twin boys with severe autism. They also kept families topped up with essential produce during lockdown delivering to doorsteps both food and toys to keep our children stimulated as well as fed, looking after those who have neonatal births, providing advice and packs for the tiny babies and the parents. This charity is amazing.”

Molly Thomas added: “Maryann Brooks for always going above and beyond to help people in everything she does, even before Covid but especially during. She is a wonderful human doing wonderfully human things and she deserves the biggest thank you.”

Jane Harris said: “The Saplings children’s centre in Bletchley. The team have been supporting families in Bletchley with, food, activities, Facebook live, activity packs and a fabulous smile. They have been doing much more to help and support families.”

Clare Robertson nominated Molly's Pantry who started a fruit and vegetable delivery service on the first day of the first national lockdown in 2020.

She said: “They have grown so much since then. They now have a lovely little shop on Buckingham Road, Bletchley, where they are now selling even more local products and they have done this without any help. Well done Molly, Jo and kiddies for all you have done for the locals of mk and surrounding areas in such difficult time.”

Jasmine Lewis added: “I would like to nominate my mum who set up a national network of support groups for anyone who has lost someone during the pandemic, which is called Covid-19 Families UK. She did it all by herself and with no help she has made 34 support groups and is helping over 1,700 bereaved people.”

John Cain commented: “I’d like to nominate Rob and Claire from Énergie Fitness in Kiln Farm. Honestly I don’t know what I’d do without these heroes who have helped keep me and many other fit and mentally healthy with online classes and outdoor COVID-safe challenges. Plus they have supported many charities during these tough times even when their business closed. Incredible people do incredible things and both of them are true heroes.”

Sue Downie nominated Naseem Khan of Namji in Wolverton. She said: “She is the most amazing community person, her support of homeless people and NHS workers is legendary. Anyone in need of a hot meal will be helped, no questions asked. And she has a great sense of humour!”

Sally Wallond wants to raise awareness of Kristina Perestegi. She said: “She has set up a virtual community for us at home to continue with our health and fitness, she provides and invites all to live and recorded fitness sessions and healthy eating plans. This lady has created a community for those of us who can only exercise at home. She tirelessly works to inspire us and keep up variety. A beam of warm sunshine through the dark covid clouds.