IF you want to organise some community action, you’d be well advised to enlist the help of Jean Margetts.

Over the years Jean has developed a reputation as a champion for the community, galvanising people into action and submitting countless applications for grants. Her tireless efforts have improved the lives of many.

Jean, of School Lane in Marsden, is a firm believer in social inclusion and has dedicated much of her spare time to helping and organising social projects.

She was the community champion for children and young people with Marsden and Slaithwaite Renaissance, part of Yorkshire Forward’s market town regeneration scheme.

She has been instrumental in raising funds to run free activities for youngsters in the Colne Valley, including forest schools, baking, pottery, photography and decision-making events.

Jean, a part-time English tutor at Royds Hall High School, is also a voluntary member of the influential Marsden and Slaithwaite Transition Towns. She has helped to raise vital funds for the group as well as organising staff and a host of activities.

These have included planting a community orchard, clothes swap days, a recycled clothes fashion show, community music events and stands at eco fairs and Slaithwaite Spa activity days.

One of the recent projects of which she is most proud is the community garden in Thornton Lodge.

Despite an illness over the last two years, Jean continues to be a catalyst and driving force for community cohesion.

Fellow community worker Lisa Mew said: “Jean is an indefatigable community champion, an incredible woman. She has a special affinity with young people and is equally passionate about the environment.

“She is loved and admired by both children and adults. She is highly driven to make a difference to peoples’ lives.”

Jean said: “I am very motivated by social inclusion. I had the advantage of a good background and education, but not everybody has. I try to get people involved who might not normally be involved in things.

“The last two years have been difficult and I am thrilled to be nominated.’’