Is Christmas knitter St Albans community hero? (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Is Christmas knitter St Albans community hero?

3:30pm Saturday 27th November 2010 in News By Alex Lewis

A ST ALBANS woman who combines work with youth groups with spreading the Christian message despite serious health and mobility problems has been nominated in the Review's search for unsung heroes in the district.

Ann Hudson, 61, of Dean Moor Close, was nominated by Abbey Canon Stephen Lake for a Community Gold Award – a scheme which is run by the Review in conjunction with St Albans solicitors Debenhams Ottaway.

The cathedral sub-dean said: "Ann is a registered disabled person who has battled ill health for many years.

"Despite several physical challenges and long hospital stays, Ann has kept her work in the community as a high priority.

"Ann is the founding leader of the Abbey Rainbow Pack which provides fun and fellowship for girls aged five to seven.

"Ann is known as Snow to her Rainbows and also assists as Snowy Owl at the Abbey Brownies.

"In 2009 Ann spent 320 hours making the new Knitivity figures for use at the abbey.

"These metre-high hand made characters from the Nativity have proved to be an inspiration to young and older alike.

"They help make the Christmas story accessible and fun.

"The figures travel around local businesses and landmarks to spread the good news of the Christmas story.

"Ann has shown extraordinary dedication this past year. We could not have done this without her. She is an example to others to do your best, whatever your challenge in life."

Mrs Hudson, who suffers from breathing problems, osteoporosis and repeatedly broken legs, said: "Sometimes it gets difficult, but I would only give up if I heard God telling me to give up.

"He is my inspiration, along with my husband, Peter.

"When I was a child I spent some years in a hospital. I didn't see my family much, and in that time God became my family."

Do you know an individual, business or charity who makes a difference in the community? Why not nominate them for a Community Gold Award. You can enter by emailing your hero’s name and any relevant contact details to revieweditor@london.newsquest.co.uk catchlining your email hero. You can also enter by text or by phone.

Send your text to 80360. Start your text with the word hero, leave a space and then enter the name and contact details of your unsung hero. Please also include your name and a contact number so we can get in touch with you in the event we are unable to contact your nominated person.

To nominate by phone, simply call 09012 210048 and leave the details of your unsung hero when prompted. Calls cost no more than 25p per call from a BT landline