Man who dressed as Santa for his daughter's school wins Hemel Hero competition

In December, the Riverside Shopping Centre decided to recognise those who had made a difference to the community in 20202 and began a search for Hemel's unsung hero.

During a challenging year many people turned to the local community to help raise spirits. From friendly neighbours delivering shopping for the elderly, local teachers reinventing the way children learn, ongoing support and reassurance from community volunteers plus the outstanding work from key workers and NHS staff.

Riverside wanted to recognise those who have gone above and beyond - from friendly neighbours delivering shopping for the elderly to community volunteers - and used their Facebook page to reach out to the local community to gain nominations for their #HemelHero competition.

After receiving over 100 nominations, Riverside has announced the winner of their #HemelHero competition.

Nominated by Kimberley Louise Hurrell, Craig Hurrell is the lucky winner of Riverside’s gift hamper.

Craig was nominated for helping to spread Christmas cheer across the town, by dressing up as Father Christmas for is daughter’s school and running an organised Santa trail around Leverstock Green. Craig greeted children and also visited a local children’s home dressed as Santa.

During Craig’s trail he encouraged families to donate food items and has collected 77kg of donations for the food bank as well as online donations for Holy Trinity Church.

Alongside lighting up the faces of little ones during the festive season, Craig also organised a Halloween trail through his local village, offering children the chance to look at the creative displays and lights.

Members of the village donated sweets and Craig also purchased some of the children’s favourites for the trail.

Riverside Centre Manager, Ian Welland, said: “We’re thrilled to announce Craig Hurrell has been crowned Hemel’s Hero 2020.

"Craig has really gone above and beyond to help support the local Hemel community and it’s great to be able to recognise all of his hard work.

"We’d like to thank each and every single one of you for your nominations and we’re proud to be a part of such a great community.”