A RETIRED teacher who has spent the past decade working to improve the community has been nominated for a national award.

Ken Davies, 72, is in with a chance of winning the Lifetime Achievement category in the upcoming TPAS Awards after he was put forward by Greenfields Community Housing.

Ken, from Witham, has taken up a number of roles with Greenfields in the past 12 years and has been responsible for a string of important community initiatives.

During his time as chairman of Greenfields Community Housing’s Witham Area Forum, Ken has overseen improvements to car parks, bus shelters, extra lighting in underpasses and the creation of the Youth Forum at Powers Hall Academy.

He has also formed a key part of the Humber Road Estate Community Initiative which has helped with tree planting on the estate.

Ken has also chaired the Greenfields’ Community Gateway Group, which approves service changes, proposes service reviews and ensures the housing association’s board understands residents’ concerns.

After hearing about his nomination, he said: “Upon retiring I found myself with more free time and decided to volunteer after my son told me ‘You’d better find something to do or you’ll end up going senile’.

“It’s been a real privilege working with so many people to improve our communities together, and I’m honoured to be recognised in these awards.

“Thank you, Greenfields, for all the opportunities and for nominating me – it means a lot.”

Greenfields spokesman Sandra Crosby said: “Ken has devoted a huge amount of time and energy to ensuring services meet our residents’ needs, as well as mentoring new volunteers.

“He has helped to improve the lives of people in our communities in so many ways.

“It’s a privilege to know him and I hope he wins the well-deserved award.”

TPAS champions tenant involvement and empowerment in social housing across England.

The winners of the awards will be announced on March 27 in Manchester.