A community-minded resident has been named a community housing trust's 2006 Neighbour from Heaven for his tireless work after a record level of nominations.

Steve Pickles was awarded the prize by South Bradford Community Housing Trust after being nominated for going out of his way to help others.

Mr Pickles organises trips out, coffee mornings, lunches, bingo sessions and more for residents on the Wycoller estate.

Two years ago he set up a residents' group and succeeded in bringing people together. Many of the activities he organises are run from the Wynot Community Shop on Wycoller Road and he also helps keep the estate tidy.

He was nominated for the award by 12 residents - more than any other nominees this year. More than 40 nominations flooded in to the housing trust. Head of operations, Zabair Rasul, presented Mr Pickles with a trophy and £100 of shopping vouchers at the Neighbour from Heaven awards. This year for the first time two runners-up prizes were also made.

These went to Jean Bolton, of Buttershaw, - who won the 2005 Neighbour from Heaven title - and Billy Gustell who is also a member of the Wynot Residents' Group.

Mrs Bolton goes out of her way to help neighbours and elderly residents including going shopping for them, taking neighbours' dogs for walks and even putting out their wheelie bins for collection.

Mr Gustell helps in the Wynot shop including running the bingo sessions for residents and also helps residents with odd jobs and running errands.

They both received a Christmas hamper and certificates.

Winner Mr Pickles, 53, said: "I'm quite proud of the fact that I got it, and I'm a bit shocked to tell the truth.

"I helped set up a residents' group about 18 months ago in Wyke, initially to help improve the estate and from that we have built it up. We are now hoping to set up a mothers and toddlers group."

A further eight people each received certificates in recognition of their commitment to helping people in their neighbourhoods.

Mr Rasul said: "As a caring organisation we are keen to celebrate the wonderful contribution of local heroes in South Bradford and this year's Neighbour from Heaven award has proved more popular than ever. Choosing one winner has been extremely difficult from so many deserving nominations."

e-mail: jo.winrow @bradford.newsquest.co.uk