Elephant and Bermondsey locals named Southwark 'Housing Heroes'

Draper Residents' Association – which covers the Draper Estate at the Elephant & Castle – won the award for 'up and coming tenants' and residents association' and was highly commended in the 'outstanding TRA' category.

Estate office Steven Senoga put the DRA forward for the 'up and coming TRA' award in recognition of a range of initiatives including the estate's 50th anniversary fiesta and a lively theatre programme at the Draper Hall.

The citation said: "Draper Residents' Association has achieved more within two years than a lot of TRAs in 20 years.

"They work tirelessly to make the community a safer, cleaner and better place for the residents."

Other winners from the SE1 area include Christine Parsons who received a lifetime achievement award for her work with Leathermarket JMB, the Crosby, Lockyer and Hamilton TRA and Bermondsey Village Hall.

The competition was open to all tenants and leaseholders in council properties across Southwark. The council received 40 nominations for individuals and organisations who make an outstanding contribution to community life.

Cllr Richard Livingstone, cabinet member for housing, said: "I am genuinely touched by the positive stories we've heard from our residents about people in their community.

"There are so many people who have gone the extra mile to support others, be there for them during tough times and helped bring people together – their kindness, resilience and determination to make Southwark a place to be proud of are an example to us all."