A LOCAL Samaritan has been crowned winner of 'Westbury's Best Neighbour' by The Southern Co-operative Funeralcare for the kindness and support he has shown to his neighbours.

Chris Saunders, of Langham Close, was nominated by his 82-year-old neighbour Marion Clegg, of Wellhead Lane caring home, for offering constant support and help to her, and for devoting his time to the wider Westbury community.

Mr Saunders, 75, said: “In a word, I was flabbergasted to receive the title.

“My wife Esme and I have always tried to help Mrs Clegg and her husband whenever they have needed it, by driving them to appointments, helping with shopping or little things like bringing in their bins.

“It is extremely humbling to know that she nominated me as Westbury’s Best Neighbour, particularly as it is for tasks that one would hope others would facilitate in the same position as us.”

As well as winning the title, Mr Saunders also received a bumper hamper of food from The Southern Co-operative, with vouchers that can be spent in any of their stores.

Mr Saunders' other commitments include being chairman of Westbury's Probus group, which meets once a fortnight to discuss ways of improving the town.

The Southern Co-operative Funeralcare, on Warminster Road, launched the 'Best Neighbour' competition to commemorate their two year anniversary.

Creator of the award Karen Coleman, Funeral Co-ordinator for The Southern Co-operative Funeralcare in Westbury, said: "At The Southern Co-operative Funeralcare, we are true champions of supporting and getting involved with our local community.

“The 'Westbury's Best Neighbour' competition was a fantastic way to showcase the amazing people who live here. Over the years, Mr Saunders has selflessly aided his neighbour through a variety of tasks and we felt that he was an extremely deserving winner.”

The award was presented by mayor Cllr David Bradshaw, who said that he has known the winner for a number of years, and has always known him to be a caring individual.