"THE Face Of Foxwood" is the latest nominee in the York Community Pride campaign.

James Gumley, 68, of Foxwood Lane, has been put forward in the Volunteer Of The Year category by community development worker Cindy Beaton.

Since he came to live in Foxwood in 1980, residents' association chairman James has been the driving force behind many community projects, including the alley-gating of snickets in the area, which has so far taken five years of fundraising.

He was one of the founder members of the Foxwood Neighbourhood Agreement - a scheme, which gives residents stronger contacts with the police and the council.

He also worked closely with City of York Council to get better windows installed in all the council houses in the area, and is one of a small team of people heavily involved in fundraising for a £500,000 project to extend the Foxwood Community Centre.

Cindy said: "Everybody in Foxwood knows who James is. He's constantly learning new things - going on training courses and wanting to improve the area."

James said: "I am the sort of chap who likes to see everything right.

"I walk around the estate at least once a week. It's nice to see things getting done."

Safer York Partnership's Carole Patrick said: "James Gumley is an excellent example of how members of the community can positively influence their community.

"He's just a very generous guy. He does a huge amount."

We still need your nominations for York's true community heroes. Do you know anyone whose quiet efforts to improve their environment should be recognised in our awards?

To send us your nominations, fill in the entry form on this page, remembering to include the category for which you are entering, and making sure you give reasons for your choice on no more than two sides of A4.

Our judges will select three finalists in each category, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on December 1.

We are also looking for sponsors for our awards.

For more information on sponsoring an award category, call Nigel Briggs at the Evening Press, on 01904 653051, or email nigel.briggs@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 10:01 Saturday, June 05, 2004