Jun 11 2010 By Sandish Shoker 2t

Queenie Smith has made a real difference to the lives of people in her neighbourhood.

The 75-year-old’s drive and personality has helped make the area around her home in Poole Road, Coundon, a safer place for everyone.

Queenie’s achievement makes her an ideal candidate for Silver Stars – either the Long Service Award or the Best Elderly Community Initiative Award.

She began co-ordinating the Neighbourhood Watch scheme in her street in 1984.

“This is something I enjoy, I enjoy meeting people and talking to people and I like to be involved,” she said.

“I love the interaction with people and you meet people from all walks of life doing this.

“The scheme has made a hell of a lot of difference in Coundon. It used to be a high crime area but once we got going it really changed. Neighbourhood Watch is the best thing that has ever happened to this country.”

Queenie, suffers from spinal injuries and arthritis which she says can be a struggle at times, but this does not stop her from her crime-busting duties.

She now also sits on the committee for the city association of watch schemes and for the West Midlands association of watch schemes.

Looking back at how she first got into the scheme, she said: “I was just out shopping one day along Moseley Avenue and saw a notice about a watch scheme being set up. I thought ‘that looks good. I have nothing to do that afternoon’.

“So I went along and one thing led to another, and now I’m hooked. I love it.”

If you know someone like Queenie, then you have until Thursday to nominate them and make sure they are recognised for their years of hard work.

Entries for the Community Initiative and Over 60s Celebrity Awards will then be put forward for a reader vote which starts on June 28.

The winner of the Long Service Award will be decided on by a panel of experts and healthcare professionals.

All the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, July 13.xt