A HOMELESS campaigner has been honoured for helping those at rock bottom get back on their feet.

For almost 40 years, Susan Blythe has been helping the homeless in Warrington through the YMCA and then with Room at the Inn- The Y Project.

She has now been awarded the Contribution to Community Award at the Warrington Guardian Inspiration Awards.

After long days working at the centre, she often stays into the night filling out funding application forms to keep the charity going.

Because of her valuable efforts over the years many have now moved on with their lives and are making a valuable contribution to Warrington society.

Susan is described as a powerhouse and an inspiration to all.

She has previously described the problems of homelessness as 'an uncertain horizon', saying: "We rely on faith groups' efforts for support.

"Donations of clothing, food, sleeping bags and toiletries are always welcome."

Room at the Inn – The Y Project in Winmarleigh Street is the new charity that has taken over services from the old Warrington YMCA, providing daytime services and a 10-bed night shelter.

After winning, Susan was still spreading the word about the wonderful work of the charity she is so proud to be a part of.

She added: “I’m really grateful to win and I’m collecting this on behalf of all our workers and volunteers and to highlight the issue of homelessness.

"That’s something we all need to think about.

"The people of Warrington are just amazing; we have hardly any money and I can put a post on our Facebook page and they are there.

"Sometimes we can lose sight of things but homelessness is something which can happen to anyone and we can all contribute towards changing that."

Winning a highly commended award was Philip Hicken.

An exceptionally talented and inspirational athletics coach, Philip has changed the lives of so many young people helping them to achieve astounding results thanks to his expert knowledge and guidance.

While Alan Williams is a community champion, not only running the popular historic transport day but helping set up Lymm Heritage Centre.

Also highly commended, Alan has done so much to aid the Lymm Festival Group.