“Human kindness, empathy and a sense of community inspires me”

A West Howe woman who has spent the past year helping the community’s most vulnerable has been honoured by Morebus as a Covid Hero.

The bus operator launched its campaign, designed to recognise the mammoth efforts of key workers and community heroes during the coronavirus pandemic, at the beginning of this year.

Jules Lunniss, 60, was singled out for the volunteering she has carried out within the local community.

Andrew Wickham, pictured left, Morebus Managing Director, said: “We were inundated with nominations from people across Dorset, telling us about the wonderful acts of kindness carried out by so many in the most difficult of times.

“Jules stood out because of her selfless attitude – delivering food parcels to vulnerable people affected by Covid 19.

“She has also made shopping trips for those who are shielding – as well as volunteering at a local food bank.

“Although enduring her own health issues, she has done everything possible to support those in need, even working part time for The SAMEE Charity, helping people with disabilities.

“Jules represents the very best of us, and I am delighted that we are able to recognise her as a Dorset Covid Hero.

“We were truly humbled by the number of people working so hard to keep our community going throughout the pandemic.

“They are all Covid Heroes – but Jules’ efforts stood out above the rest.”

In recognition of everything Jules has done to help those living in her local community, her name will appear on a bus for the next 12 months.

Jules said: “When I found out that I had won this award I was very humbled and embarrassed as there are so many people that have done what I do and more.

“Human kindness, empathy and a sense of community inspires me to help others.

“I truly believe in a sense of community and when I got Covid in January of this year I was truly grateful to everyone that helped and supported me.

“I hope to keep this sense and commitment to my community, even when Covid is over as I have come to understand the needs of individuals and families.

“And it is only as a community based on human kindness that we can all be safe and healthy.”