Chris and Ian | Local Heroes

Chris and Ian were two of our Top Local Heroes from our social media campaign Depictions of DN. As we filmed Chris and Ian for the Depictions of DN Film, we had a chance to chat to them both and learn a little more on what they got up to in lockdown and how they felt being nominated for a Depictions of DN.

Chris and Ian are stewards at Flintwood Church and cover the day to day running of the church. As lockdown began in March 2020, there were vulnerable people within Chris and Ian’s church and community who couldn’t leave their homes to do their food shopping.

Chris and Ian volunteered to do their shopping and deliver it to their doors, as well as their own. This included picking up necessary medication for them too and supporting them in their needs. It also meant that isolated members of their community during lockdown would have a form of contact throughout such a difficult time.

Jenny Aimson, who nominated Chris and Ian for the Depictions of DN said “The group have been doing this in their own time along with having to do their own shopping, this has been of a great support to vulnerable residents during the pandemic as some residents do not have family who are able to do this for them, the residents they have supported are very grateful to Chris and Ian.”

When Chris and Ian were asked why they supported members of their community during lockdown, they said “we just thought it was the right thing to do. And you know, Scripture tells us to look after people in in need. So, we have done that.” It was clear from our conversation with Chris and Ian that the work they did was collaborative with the community, and they received support from organisations such as Doncaster PFG in times of need.

We asked Chris and Ian how it felt to be nominated for a Depictions of DN, they said reflected on how it was lovely to receive the award, but focused on how it felt like a community effort, they said “we didn't do it for an award. We did it because we felt this is what God wants us to do. As part of us, and what we stand for. You know, so to get the award it yes, it's lovely. But, I know there are other people in this”. The couple were pleased the recognition would bring awareness to their area.

Thank you for all the work you do to support your community, Chris and Ian! You both truly are local heroes.

To find out more about Chris and Ian’s Parish, have a look at their facebook page here:

www.facebook.com/Flintwoodmethodistdoncaster/

Our Top Local Heroes have taken part in a film shoot with artist James Lockey as a way to profile their work and celebrate their achievements. Along with a beautiful film score composed by Hayley Youell, the film was featured in the 2021 DN Festival of Light.

Watch the Depictions of DN Film by James Lockey here:  www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyzO1E-FF6Y