Langley Moor Corps praised for community work

The Salvation Army in Langley Moor has been honoured with a Community Award for the work it carried out during the pandemic.

Corps officer Lieutenant Ali Brooks accepted Brandon and Byshottles Parish Council Award on behalf of the Corps who provided food parcels, clothing and other practical support to those struggling during the Covid-19 lockdown.

Lt Ali said: “It was my privilege to accept a Community Award from Brandon and Byshottles Council on behalf of the church for work supporting our local community during the pandemic.

“Throughout the pandemic, our church was a haven for those in need. We were able to come alongside people through offering food parcels, clothing, help with benefit claims as well as other practical assistance as requested by members of the public and via Durham Council’s Community Hub.

“Over Christmas we handed out hundreds of toys as part of our Christmas Present Appeal thanks to the generous donations from the community and working with local churches, we arranged an online service for people who find the festive season a challenging time.”

Ali found that despite the pandemic bringing people together, many felt lonely and suffered poor mental health. This inspired her and the team to look at creating a community garden space behind the hall, which they are hoping will open sometime in the next 12 months.

Ali continued: “The community garden was an idea born during the pandemic which was an awful time for people who were living alone or could not see family and friends. We want it to be a place where people can come and be together and take part in activities such as gardening, which has been proved to help improve mental health.

“It has been my honour to work with others to serve our community here in Langley Moor, through online worship, garden visits, phone calls and now face-to-face. We are a community united in living together in this area.”