HE IS the community member who has helped the people in Southampton for almost ten years.

Lorenzo Geddes has been living in Southampton since 1962 and attends the Black Heritage Association group five times a week in Newtown.

Now, group chairman Beverley Dowdell and group member Sandra Davidson have nominated the grandfather of three for the St George’s Day Community Awards.

“Lorenzo is a humble man. He is the first person to offer to help someone in need.

“He does not look for thanks or reward, he just does it to benefit the community,” said Beverley.

Mr Geddes has been attending the group for almost ten years and has helped many of the members who are over 60 years old.

The 80-year-old, who lives in Newtown said he was shocked to receive the nomination.

He said: “I do not help people for thanks, I help them to make them happy, which in turn makes me happy.”

The group has become a support network for many people of African and Caribbean origin living in Southampton.

“The community is dwindling, a lot of people have passed away so the group is a great place for people to stay connected,” said Beverley.

Members meet to exchange views, play games and share memories of their country of origin.

“We are like a family. Sometimes there are raised voices when we have a debate or discussion but we never take it personally and it is always left when the debate finishes,” said Lorenzo, who previously worked at Southampton Docks.

The second annual St Georges’ Day Community Awards, supported by the Daily Echo, Southampton Voluntary Services and Southampton City Council, will take place on April 23.

Anyone can be nominated, from a community group leader to someone who has helped those needing extra support or started a campaign to improve life in the city.

The closing deadline is April 13; nominations after this date will not be considered.

For free tickets to the event visit bit.ly/2ndvc24.

To make a nomination write 300 words on why you believe an individual or organisation should be considered, accompanied by contact details.

Email your nomination to hannah.carroll@dailyecho.co.uk or send a letter to Hannah Carroll, Newspaper House, Test Lane, Redbridge Southampton, SO16 9JX.