Nikki Samuels nominates ‘wonderful’ mum, Sandra Vardy

Sandra Vardy, 59, has been put forward for the accolade by her daughter, Nikki Samuels, who described her mother as “wonderful”.

She said her mum, who has three children, two step-children, six grandchildren and one great granddaughter, always found time for her family despite working full-time.

In her supporting statement, Nikki, 37, wrote: “She is always there for me whenever I need her. She’s amazing and I’m proud to call her my mum.

“She works all week, then on Saturdays she visits my granddad, who is in his 80s, and cleans his house, and on Sundays she goes to the nursing home that my nana is in and spends time with her.

“After that she goes to do her housework. She is now a great grandma and always takes time out for all the family.

“I think she’s wonderful and that’s why I nominate her as Parent Of The Year.”

Our Community Pride Awards, which are being run in conjunction with Benenden Healthcare Society and City of York Council, aim to give York’s unsung heroes their moment in the spotlight.

With 13 categories to honour people from all walks of life, we want to recognise the extraordinary achievements of those who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to improve the lives of others in the local community.

The awards are also a celebration of the individuals who have shown immense bravery in the face of life’s hardships and challenges.

The deadline for entries is Friday, July 23, after which a panel of judges will draw up a shortlist, and finalists from each category will be invited to a ceremony at York Racecourse in October.